Little People, Big Emotions

by Chelsea McNichols, OTR/L, CIMI

Close your eyes and imagine a handing a toddler a scoop of pink ice cream when they asked for blue ice cream. What will the reaction be?

Now, think of this same scenario with a 7 year old. What will the reaction be? Now, again, think of this scenario with a 15 year old. What will the reaction be? Lastly, envision handing an adult a scoop of pink ice cream when they asked  for blue ice cream. What might the response be?  

We know it’s acceptable to feel every emotion, and as adults, we are able to match our reaction to the situation. Children don’t innately have the skills to do this, so they must be taught how to regulate their emotions. 

What is emotional regulation?  

Emotional regulation, also known as self-regulation, is the ability to monitor and modulate one’s emotions, as well as how you express them. This includes handling frustration, resist explosive reactions to upsetting stimuli, and adapt to new challenges. Self-regulation begins to develop  in the toddler years and continues to develop into adulthood.  

Why is emotional regulation important? 

• Learning at school  

• Social acceptance 

• Make and maintain friendships 

• Foster independence 

What can I do as a parent to help my child regulate his or her emotions? 

• Practice positive affirmation together 

• Validate feelings 

• Practice showing emotions 

• Model feelings and problem solving 

• Incorporate books about emotions into your daily routine

Book Recommendations On Emotional Regulation

 The Color Monster - Anna Llenas 

Some Days I Flip My Lid - Kellie Bailey 

What Should Danny Do? - Adir Levy 

My Mouth is a Volcano - Julia Cook  

Bubble Gum Brain - Julia Cook  

Little Monkey Calms Down - Michael Dahl 

Breathe Like a Bear - Kira Willey 

When should you seek help?

Consider contacting a professional for help if your child is withdrawn and has difficulty interacting with others, demonstrates self-harm or harm to others, is difficult to discipline and manage behaviors, has frequent challenging tantrums/behaviors, or seems to be lacking social skills that other same-aged peers have.

About the Author

Chelsea McNichols, OTR/L, CIMI

Chelsea has been practicing as an occupational therapist since 2016 after graduating from Xavier University. She utilizes research-based strategies and play-based activities to motivate her clients to achieve the best possible outcomes. Chelsea is a certified TummyTime! Method professional, as well as a Certified Infant Massage Instructor. She has special interest and experience with sensory processing disorder, autism, emotional regulation, feeding, and infant bodywork. Chelsea offers services through First Steps and private practice at KTL Therapy.