Understanding emotions and supporting mental health starts in the early years. Children experience strong feelings and need parents and caring adults to help them learn, understand, cope with and express these emotions. Once we learn what to look for, we can begin supporting children’s mental and emotional health, allowing them to become healthy and strong adults. Here are some ways we can help our children achieve emotional and mental well-being.

Recognizing Feelings and Talking About Them

Children often feel emotions before they learn how to respond to them. Helping them name their emotions is an important first step in learning how to cope.

Why it matters: When kids learn the words for feelings like happy, sad, mad or scared, they can express themselves more clearly. Talking calmly about feelings teaches children it’s safe to share what they think and feel.

What you can do: When you feel an emotion, use simple words to describe what you're feeling. Ask open-ended questions (“How did that make you feel?”) rather than yes/no questions. Share your own feelings in ways children can understand.

Create Routines for Stability and Comfort

Predictability and routine help children feel safe and supports emotional balance.

Why it matters: Regular routines around meals, bedtime and daily activities provide predictability. When children know what to expect, they can focus more on learning and growing.

What can you do: Set simple daily patterns for morning, after school and bedtime. Keep mealtimes and bedtimes consistent. Prepare your child in advance when routines need to change.

Teach Healthy Ways to Cope With Big Feelings

Children need tools to calm themselves and manage stress.

What can you help them do:

• Deep Breathing - Take slow, deep breaths when emotions feel big.
• Calm spaces – Create a quiet spot with books, soft toys or calming activities.
• Movement breaks – Running, jumping or dancing can help release stress.
• Positive habits – Acts of kindness and positive interactions improve mood and confidence.

Things to watch for that show more support might be needed:

1. Intense, frequent tantrums that don’t improve over time
2. Not doing things they used to enjoy (e.g., playing with friends, hobbies, etc.)
3. Ongoing worry or sadness
4. Trouble sleeping, eating or having school performance problems

Build a Sense of Belonging and Connection

Children thrive when they feel loved and accepted.

Why it matters: A strong connection with family and school supports emotional health and resilience. Feeling like they belong helps children cope with stress and enjoy learning.

What you can do: Try to spend time in play or conversation every day without phones or other screens on. Praise effort and kindness, not just performance. Encourage friendships and school engagement.

Additional Resources

Healthy Mental & Emotional Development: 4 Key Building Blocks - HealthyChildren.org

Emotional & Behavioral Wellness Resources - The Kids Mental Health Foundation

About Children's Mental Health | Children’s Mental Health | CDC