Big or small, every feeling matters. When your child is upset, try sitting with them for a minute before you fix anything.
A broken cracker. A lost game. A friend who said “no.” To a grown-up, some of these seem small. To a child, they can feel huge. When we slow down and listen, we tell them their feelings count.
What it means for your child
Here’s how feelings, big and small, show up at each age.
- Babies: A dropped toy can bring real tears. Pick them up, rock them and say softly, “Oh, that was sad.”
- Toddlers: A banana that broke in half can feel like a disaster. Get down low and say what you see: “You wanted it whole.”
- Preschoolers: They might feel left out, jealous or nervous. Help them find the word, and let them know it’s okay to feel that way.
- School-age kids: Big kids may hide small hurts. Make time to sit with them, even in silence. They may open up when they’re ready.
Try this tonight
Tonight, when something goes wrong, try waiting before you fix it.
- Sit down next to your child and stay quiet for a minute.
- Say what you notice: “You look disappointed.”
- Then ask, “Do you want help, or do you want a hug?”
Words you can use
- “That was hard. I’m here.”
- “It makes sense that you feel that way.”
- “Want help or a hug?”
At Nana’s Place
In Glendale, Nana’s Place offers day, evening and overnight care for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years at our Peoria and Northern buildings. Every child’s feelings matter here, big or small. Plan a visit whenever you’re ready.
Questions parents ask
Should I tell my child not to cry?
Try not to. Crying is one way little ones let feelings out. Stay close, stay calm and let the tears pass. Then talk about it.
My child overreacts to small things. What do I do?
To them, it isn’t small. Name the feeling, stay calm and give it a minute. As they grow and learn more words, those big reactions often get smaller.
For the really big ones, read Big feelings are welcome here. And sitting still for a minute takes practice, because patience is love that waits.
