Naming Feelings and Finding Calm

Understanding mental health is important for kids and adults. It helps kids know their feelings, realize they are not alone, and learn how to handle emotions in a healthy way. By talking about feelings and having ways to cope, children can grow up feeling stronger and more confident.

One way to help children understand their feelings is by naming them. When kids can say, “I’m sad” or “I’m angry,” it becomes easier for them to deal with those feelings. Books can be very helpful tools in this process.

Books We Love

“The Invisible String” by Patrice Karst talks about a magical string that connects us to the people we love, even when they are not with us. This story can be very comforting for children dealing with separation anxiety, loss, or grief.

Another great book is “The Rabbit Listened” by Cori Doerrfeld. It shows the importance of just listening when someone is upset. Sometimes, kids (and adults) don’t need advice or solutions; they just need someone to hear what they have to say. This story teaches children that it’s okay to just be there for someone, offering comfort through listening.

Knowing how to calm down is also very important. “Moody Cow Meditates” by Kerry Lee Maclean tells the story of a cow who learns to meditate to manage his anger. One of the tools from the book is a glitter-filled calm down bottle. When you shake it, the glitter swirls around, and as it slowly settles, it helps you calm down too. This can be a fun and effective way for kids to learn self-soothing techniques.

“Invisible Things” by Andy Pizza and Sophie Miller looks at the hidden feelings and thoughts that everyone has but no one can see. By noticing these “invisible things,” kids can understand that everyone has inner experiences that affect their emotions and actions. This can help them feel more empathy and self-awareness, making them feel more connected and less alone in their feelings.

Other books our therapists love include Worries Are Not Forever by Elizabeth Verdick, Ruby Finds a Worry by Tom Percival, and Tengo un nudo en la barriga by Alberto Soler and Concepción Roger.

By learning about mental health and using tools like books, talking with a trusted adult, and calm down bottles, kids can better understand their feelings and learn healthy ways to deal with them. This can help them handle life’s ups and downs with more strength and calmness.

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