Name feelings as they happen
1–2 yearsFamily ConnectionNo materials needed
When you notice your child experiencing an emotion, name it for them. Say things like, you seem frustrated, or you look happy. This helps them begin to understand their internal experiences. Keep your tone warm and accepting of whatever they feel.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
When you notice your child experiencing an emotion, name it for them. Say things like, you seem frustrated, or you look happy. This helps them begin to understand their internal experiences. Keep your tone warm and accepting of whatever they feel.
Why It Works
Secure attachment promotes developmental competence in emotion expression and helps children understand and modulate emotions (Thompson, 2008). When you name emotions with acceptance, you teach your child that feelings are safe to express and that you understand their inner world.
Tips for Parents
Use simple feeling words like happy, sad, mad, or scared.
Name your own feelings too so they learn emotions are normal.
Accept all emotions without trying to change how they feel.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Language-Rich EnvironmentImitation and Modeling
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