How to Talk to Kids About Emotions and Mental Health
Helping kids navigate their feelings isn’t just part of parenting—it’s foundational to raising resilient, emotionally healthy humans. The earlier we open the door to mental health conversations, the more likely children are to feel safe asking for help when they need it.
Here’s how to start those conversations, even if you didn’t grow up having them yourself.
1. Start Early—and Keep It Simple
You don’t need to wait until something big happens to talk about emotions. Everyday moments, like a scraped knee, a disagreement with a friend, or nervousness before school, can all become teachable moments.
Use age-appropriate language:
For younger kids: “It sounds like your heart feels sad right now.”
For older kids: “That sounds frustrating. Want to talk about it?”
The goal isn’t to fix everything but to normalize the fact that emotions come and go, and it’s okay to feel all of them.
2. Model What You Want Them to Learn
Kids learn more from what we do than what we say. If you want them to express emotions in healthy ways, show them how. Try saying:
“I had a tough day, and I’m feeling overwhelmed. I’m going to take a few minutes to calm down.”
“I’m excited about tomorrow, but I’m also a little nervous. That’s normal.”
By narrating your feelings and showing how you cope, you’re teaching emotional intelligence in real time.
3. Create a Safe, Judgment-Free Space
Let your kids know they won’t get in trouble for talking about hard things—even if their emotions are big, messy, or confusing.
Instead of brushing things off with “You’re fine,” try:
“That sounds really hard. Do you want to tell me more about it?”
“I’m here. You’re not alone.”
The more safety they feel, the more likely they’ll come to you when something really matters.
4. Use Tools to Help Them Open Up
Sometimes kids need a little help finding the right words. Try:
Drawing how they feel
Reading books about emotions and mental health together
Talking while doing something else (driving, walking, coloring)
These tools can make emotional conversations feel more natural and less intimidating.
5. Know When to Ask for Help
If your child seems stuck in sadness, worry, anger, or fear for long periods, or their behavior has changed significantly, don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist or counselor. Getting help is not a sign of failure—it’s a courageous step toward healing.
You don’t need to have all the right words. What matters most is that your child knows you’re a safe place—one where feelings are welcome, support is consistent, and love doesn’t change, even on the hard days.
If you need help supporting your child’s mental health, contact us today. You’re not in this alone.
