Big feelings can feel scary. Kids and teens feel strong emotions. They can feel angry, sad, worried, or scared. As a parent or caregiver, you can help. You do not have to fix everything. You can listen, stay calm, and be with your child. At Daybreak Telepsych, we work with children and adolescents. We help families talk about feelings and find the right support.
What Are Big Feelings?
Big feelings are strong emotions. They can come fast. A child may cry, shout, or withdraw. Sometimes a child acts out. Other times, they seem very quiet. Big feelings can happen after a change. They can come after a fight, a move, or a loss. They can also happen for no clear reason. That is OK. Feelings are part of being human.
Why Big Feelings Happen
Children are still learning how to handle feelings. Their brains are growing. It can be hard for them to use words. Their bodies show what they feel first. Some things that make big feelings more likely:
- Big changes like a new school or a new home.
- Loss or grief.
- Trouble sleeping or feeling tired.
- Feeling worried or scared about things.
- Different stages of growing up, like puberty.
Signs Your Child Needs Extra Support
Not all big feelings mean a child needs a doctor or therapist. But watch for signs that last longer than usual:
- The child cries or gets angry a lot.
- Sleep changes a lot.
- They stop doing things they liked.
- They have trouble at school or with friends.
- They talk about hurting themselves or say goodbye.
If you see these signs, it is a good idea to get help.
How to Start the Conversation
Start small. Find a quiet time. Make sure your child feels safe. You can sit beside them or play a game. Use simple words. Try these steps:
- Notice and name the feeling. Say, “I see you look upset.”
- Ask a gentle question. Say, “Would you care to explain what happened?”
- Wait and listen. Give your child time to answer.
- Say you understand. “That sounds hard.”
Do not rush. Do not tell them to stop crying. Let them feel. Let them find their words.
What to Say to Your Child
Here are phrases that help. Say them with a calm voice.
- “I’m here with you.”
- “It is okay to feel that.”
- “You are safe with me.”
- “Tell me more when you are ready.”
- “We will figure this out together.”
If your child is small, use simple words like “big sad” or “big mad.” For older kids, ask more about what they think and why they feel that way.
How to Listen Well
Listening is the best tool. Try these tips:
- Look at your child. Give eye contact if it feels right.
- Put away phones and other things.
- Repeat back a little of what they say. This shows you heard them.
- Ask, “Do I have that right?”
- Don’t give long speeches. Short and kind is better.
Kids feel better when they know someone hears them.
Easy Tools to Use At Home
You can use simple tools to help your child learn about feelings.
- Feeling Chart: Make a chart with faces. Ask your child to point to the face that fits.
- Deep Breaths: Practice taking slow breaths together. Five slow breaths can calm the body.
- Quiet Box: Fill a box with soft toys, books, and calming items. Let your child use it when feelings feel big.
- Story Time: Read a book about feelings. Talk about how the character felt.
- Draw It Out: Give crayons and paper. Let your child draw the feeling. No need to explain the art.
These tools teach kids they can handle big feelings.
When to Ask For Professional Help
Some problems need a trained professional. You can call us at Daybreak Telepsych if:
- You feel you need guidance on how to help your child.
- Your child’s feelings last a long time.
- Your child says they want to hurt themselves.
- Your child has trouble at school or with friends for many weeks.
We offer child and adolescent care. We look at each child’s needs. We give kind and age-appropriate help. If needed, we suggest therapy, medication, or other supports.
How Daybreak Telepsych Can Help
At Daybreak Telepsych, we care for children and teens. We work on a case-by-case basis. This means we listen to each family and make a plan that fits. Our team offers:
- Friendly evaluations to understand your child’s feelings.
- Help with how to talk and listen at home.
- Medication management when it is needed and helpful.
- Second opinions, if you want another view.
We serve people in Washington. We provide telepsych, so many families can get help from home. If you are near Washington and want to learn more, please contact us. We can talk about what your child needs.
What Parents Can Do Every Day
Here are small habits that help children feel safe:
- Keep a regular sleep schedule. Sleep helps mood.
- Eat meals together when you can. Talk and share.
- Offer praise for small wins. Say, “Good job trying.”
- Teach problem steps: name the feeling, take a breath, and choose one small next thing.
- Make time for play and laughter. Joy helps healing.
These small things build a strong base for children.
How to Help Teens
Teens want more privacy and control. Let them know you are there. Give choices when you can. Use calm talk. Avoid long lectures. Ask, “How can I support you?” instead of “What’s wrong with you?” Let them lead some talks. Offer professional help when problems affect sleep, school, or safety.
Words to Avoid
Some words can make a child shut down. Try not to say:
- “Stop crying.”
- “You are okay, it’s nothing.”
- “You should be over it.”
Instead, say small, kind words. Help your child name the feeling and feel safe.
Conclusion
Big feelings are part of growing up. You can help your child by staying calm and listening. Use simple tools like breathing, drawing, and feeling charts. Look for signs that need extra help. At Daybreak Telepsych, we are here to support children, teens, and families. We treat each child with care and respect. If you want help starting a talk or finding support, we will walk with you. You do not have to do this alone.
FAQs
Q. Will talking make feelings worse?
No. Listening helps. Kids feel better when someone hears them.
Q. What are big feelings?
Big feelings are strong emotions like big sadness, big anger, or big worry. They can make kids cry or shout.
