I’ve been working with kids on managing their emotions, but I’m not sure I’m doing it right. Anyone have tips on using positive reinforcement to help teach emotional regulation? I know praising good behavior is important, but I’m looking for specific strategies that work well with children. Thanks!
I’ve been in your shoes, and it can be tricky! With my kids, I found that catching them in the act of managing emotions well was key. When my youngest used deep breaths during a meltdown, I’d say something like, “I noticed you took deep breaths to calm down. That was really smart!” It helped reinforce the good behavior.
We also started a ‘feelings jar’ where they’d put in a marble each time they used a coping strategy. Once it was full, we’d do a fun family activity. It made emotional regulation more concrete for them.
Progress isn’t always linear. There were times when it felt like nothing was working, but consistency paid off in the long run. Hang in there! 
In our family, we’ve found that a visual reward system works well for emotional regulation. We created a colorful chart with different emotions and coping strategies. When the kids use a strategy successfully, they get to put a sticker on the chart.
After a certain number of stickers, they can pick a small treat or extra screen time. It’s been really motivating for them. They actually get excited about managing their feelings now!
We also talk about emotions during calm moments. We’ll read books about feelings or play guessing games about how characters in shows might be feeling. It’s made talking about emotions a normal part of our day.
Just remember, every child is different. What works for us might not work for everyone. Keep trying different approaches until you find what clicks for your family.
In our house, I’ve found a positive approach by using a feelings chart. My kid places a sticker on the emotion they’re experiencing. When they manage a difficult feeling effectively, they choose a small reward from our calm box. It has become a fun daily routine.
At times, we engage in role-playing different scenarios and practice various coping strategies. It feels like a game that naturally teaches important life skills without any pressure or sense of formality.
My kids respond well to a simple points system. They earn points for using coping strategies or expressing feelings calmly. Points add up to small rewards or privileges.
It’s not perfect, but it’s helped them be more aware of their emotions and reactions.
I’ve been trying something new with my 5-year-old that’s kinda working. We made a ‘feelings superhero’ chart. When they handle a big emotion without melting down, they get to put on a cape sticker. It’s cute to see them get excited about it.
But I’m still figuring things out. Some days are great, others not so much. I wonder if anyone has tips for when they refuse to engage with the chart? Or maybe there’s a better way to do this at their age?
I like the idea of a points system, but I worry it might make emotions feel like a chore. How do you balance that?