Sometimes small children experience very big emotions. For little ones, those feelings can be overwhelming because they don’t always have the words to explain what’s going on inside. That’s where adults can step in and help by giving those emotions a name.
When children learn to label their feelings—“I feel sad,” “I’m frustrated,” “I’m excited”—they begin developing emotional intelligence. This skill empowers them to communicate with words rather than behaviors, which often means fewer meltdowns and smoother interactions with peers and adults.
One fun way we practiced this in daycare was through a simple, hands-on activity. We printed out blank faces and gave the children playdough to create different expressions—happy, sad, angry, surprised, and more. As they shaped the eyes, mouths, and eyebrows, we talked about which emotions those faces represented.
This playful exercise not only engaged their creativity but also gave them the chance to connect feelings with facial expressions. Over time, children begin to recognize those emotions in themselves and others, strengthening empathy and social skills.
By supporting kids in identifying and expressing their emotions early on, we give them tools they’ll carry into friendships, school, and life.