Big Feelings, Little Bodies: Moving Through Emotions

This time of year, brings excitement, family traditions, and special memories. But they can also bring big emotions for adults and young children. Busy schedules, changes in routines, colder weather, and memories of past holidays can leave us feeling excited one moment and overwhelmed the next.

Sometimes certain times of the year remind us of past experiences, even when we don’t realize it. A favorite song, a familiar smell, or a family tradition might bring happiness, sadness, or memories of someone we miss.

Young children experience these big feelings, too, but they don’t always have the words to explain them. Instead, emotions may show up through crying, frustration, clinginess, extra energy, or changes in behavior.

Did you know that feelings aren’t just something we think about? We feel them in our bodies, too!

When we’re upset, our muscles might tighten, our hearts may beat faster, or we may feel restless. Children experience these physical reactions as well, and sometimes movement can help more than words.

The next time you or your child is experiencing big feelings, try getting curious rather than immediately trying to fix the feeling. Ask, “What am I feeling?” or help your child name their emotion. Then explore what their body might need.

Try moving through those feelings together

• Feeling frustrated? Stomp your feet, shake out your arms, or have a silly dance party.
• Feeling worried? Take a slow walk, stretch like a tall tree, or gently rock together.
• Feeling sad? Snuggle, sway to soft music, or take a quiet walk while holding hands.
• Feeling overwhelmed? Step away from the activity, take a few slow breaths, and find a peaceful place to move or rest.

Movement doesn’t make the feeling disappear, but it can help our bodies settle and make those big emotions easier to manage.

Remember, young children learn how to handle emotions by watching and connecting with the adults around them. When we take time to recognize our own feelings and care for our bodies, we are teaching our children to do the same.

This season, remember that all feelings are welcome. We don’t have to have the perfect words or the perfect time. Sometimes the most meaningful thing we can do is slow down, connect, and move through those big feelings together.

Important Dates

November 12 & 13 – NO SCHOOL – Conferences

November 25, 26, 27 – NO SCHOOL – Break – Office will be CLOSED November 26 & 27

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