Here are some ways you can help your child:

• Name her emotions. This will help her express emotions to you. “I’m sorry the bad weather spoiled our plans. I can tell you’re sad.”

• Help her manage emotions. Let her know what reactions are appropriate and acceptable. “You may pound a pillow if you’re angry. But you may not hit others.”

• Help her channel emotions to a creative outlet. This will help her deal with emotions so that they don’t become overwhelming. “You feel bouncy. Let’s go outside and see how far you can run.”

• Help her recognize and react to others’ emotions. This helps her build the social skills needed to interact with other people. “Jamie’s crying. Let’s ask her what’s wrong.”

funderstanding.com/eq.cfm (9/01).

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