Today's Tip for Families

[En español]

11-01-2024

Manage Feelings That Get in the Way of Learning

When children share negative feelings, many adults are tempted to dismiss them:

Child: “I hate reading. The words are too hard.”

Adult: “Don’t be silly. These words are easy.”

The result is usually an argument. Or, the child feels incompetent.

For a more positive result, acknowledge your child’s feelings. Your student won’t have to waste time feeling defensive or incapable. You can both move on and start thinking about solutions.

When your child expresses negative feelings:

• Identify the feelings. “You sound frustrated.”
• Acknowledge the feelings with a sound or word—like “Oh,” “Mmm” or “I see.”
• Accept your child’s feelings, even as you stop unacceptable behavior. “I know you’re finding reading challenging. But you can't throw the book. Tell me more about what’s frustrating you. What seems to be hard?”
• Ask questions that will help your child think of what to do next. “What could you do that would make it easier?”

Brought to you by:

West Point Consolidated School District

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