Inside Out 2: How to Teach Kids to Manage Emotions

With the arrival of new characters, Pixar’s recent success demonstrates the importance of understanding the different feelings that permeate childhood

Have you ever looked at a person and wondered what was going on in their head? This is the question that Pixar Animation Studios proposes to answer again Reverse 2.

In the sequel, in addition to the already known Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger and Disgust, new characters make up the cast. Anxiety, envy, boredom, shame and even nostalgia enter the thoughts of the protagonist Riley, who experiences the first challenges of adolescence.

The similarities with reality are not few and raise important reflections. Inside our “control cabins”, each emotion has its role and it is the balance that moves us. But how do we teach it to children?

There is no instruction manual

Every child has a different rhythm, however the first feelings tend to manifest themselves from an early age. Before learning to express themselves through language, the little ones already feel happy, sad, angry and scared.

As communication improves, which usually occurs around two and a half years, understanding emotions becomes clearer. Desires, dislikes, joys and annoyances take the form of words and gestures.

Safe space in the family

Social-emotional learning is ongoing. Clinical psychologist Fernanda Schmidt, a specialist in psychoanalytic theory and child psychotherapy, explains that emotions become more complex and give way to different characters as we grow.

“To help little ones explore their feelings, parents can ask questions like, ‘Are you angry?’ or ‘Were you angry about what happened?’ These are questions that help children connect situations to their behavior and identify what was unpleasant,” Schmidt explains.

The opposite is also true. Adults can tell children what they feel, whether they are happy or sad. Building confidence in expressing oneself begins with being open to understanding different emotions.

It’s not worth trying to guess your children’s feelings. “Dialogue is essential. We will never be sure of the other’s thoughts without talking. When parents open the space for sharing, children will allow themselves to talk about the subject,” emphasizes the psychologist.

How to stimulate social-emotional learning?

There are several ways to promote understanding of emotions in childhood. Contact with other children, setting limits, and encouraging creativity and autonomy can help.

Books and films are also great allies. In addition to its In reverseliterary works such as Face of what?, The Color Monster AND Remembering Zaza can help in the dialogue about feelings.

Sometimes psychotherapeutic support is necessary. When a child shows continuous suffering through words, gestures or habits, turning to a professional can be the best way to help him.

Every emotion has its space

There is no feeling that is totally good or bad. All emotions experienced during childhood are part of growing up. Even difficult experiences contribute to the formation of identity.

“Anxiety, for example, is protective. It pushes us to plan and think about the consequences. Everyone has a little bit of it. The question is how to balance it,” emphasizes psychologist Fernanda.

When taught to identify what they feel, children gain the tools to both make their own decisions clearly and become more empathetic and balanced adults.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.