The Importance of Teaching Preschoolers About Feelings

Preschool may be the first time a child must share toys, cooperate with other children and show respect toward someone other than Mom or Dad. Each child will have different feelings and reactions to preschool, and it's important that teachers and parents teach preschoolers how to cope with a range of emotions.

Significance

A report on child behavior problems by the University of Pittsburgh states that child care professionals commonly complain about defiant children and those unable to get along with their peers. Teaching children about feelings can help them cultivate positive relationships with peers and teachers.

Self-Control

The first step in helping children learn self-control is teaching that different feelings are normal. The National Mental Health and Education Center for Children and Families believes that a child who has self-control will feel better about him or her self.

Aggression

Kids who understand their feelings may act less aggressively than kids who don't understand how to deal with their emotions.

Identification

Teaching preschoolers how to identify their feelings can help them connect feelings with behaviors.

Vocabulary

Preschoolers should know the terms for different feelings so they can express themselves to parents and teachers.

References

• University of Pittsburgh
• National Mental Health and Education Center for Children and Families

Resources

• Feelings Vocabulary List

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