For Families & Educators

Using Language to Talk About Feelings 

Giving toddlers language for their emotions helps them manage big feelings over time. This process takes patience and practice but will support their social and emotional development in powerful ways. 

Try This: 

• Name Their Emotions: When your toddler is frustrated or upset, identify the feeling: “You’re feeling really mad right now.” 

• Books on Feelings: Reading stories about feelings can reinforce language for emotions in an accessible, relatable way.