Monkey see, monkey do!
Whether it’s a funny face or a cheerful smile – your toddler loves to mimic you. While doing your daily routine, you are setting the example for how to express and deal with different emotions.
Your child is becoming aware of other’s expressions and behaviors. Don’t feel like you have to hide your emotions from your toddler. It can be okay to show your child that grown-ups also feel sadness and stress, when the situation is appropriate. What matters is how you deal with that frustrating emotion.
Take a walk or go on a bike ride
Call or videochat with a friend
Listen to music
Do deep breathing
Did you know
If your emotions become too overwhelming, ask others for help!
Remember…
Your little one is too young to understand what is going on or how to help you, so you shouldn’t lean on your baby to comfort you in a difficult moments. Show them that it is okay to need the help of others when they are having a hard time dealing with their feelings.
- Don’t share all your emotions with your toddler. Make sure to have appropriate boundaries.
- For those times that you are feeling overwhelmed, seek out support from family, friends, or local professionals.