Bottling up emotions can delay emotional control
Supporting children in expressing their emotions strengthens their abilities to process challenges, build resilience, and maintain healthy relationships throughout life. When children feel safe to communicate, they gain confidence in their emotional intelligence and personal growth
The ability to express emotions plays a crucial role in your child’s overall well-being and development. When children struggle to articulate their feelings, they may experience frustration, anxiety, or even behavioural challenges. Bottling up emotions can delay emotional control, making it difficult for your child to process and work through experiences in a healthy way. Supporting your child in expressing him/herself can help stimulate emotional strength and self-awareness.
Several factors contribute to a child’s difficulty in sharing his/her emotions. Some children may have a naturally timid personality and may feel shy to share their feelings. Others may have a poor vocabulary or below average intellectual skills. This makes it difficult for them to identify – or to share – their emotions correctly. Family dynamics, society’s expectations, or past experiences can affect a child’s comfort level in voicing emotions. If children think their feelings may be dismissed or punished, they may learn to hold on to them rather than speak out. This can lead to stress that results in anxiety or behavioural outbursts. Some may act aggressively, while others may become withdrawn. Without a healthy outlet for emotions, children can have physical symptoms, including headaches, stomach aches, or fatigue. Not sharing emotions can also prevent them forming meaningful relationships, because good communication is key to building trust and understanding.
Parents play an important part in helping children understand their emotions. You need to have an open relationship where your child feels safe to express him/herself freely – and without judgement. Using language that is caring, such as saying, “I can see you’re feeling upset. Would you like to talk about it?”, can help children feel heard. Creative outlets such as drawing, storytelling, or journaling can also provide a way for children to process their emotions.
Teaching emotional vocabulary through books and conversations helps children share their feelings more accurately. Role-playing or using emotion charts can help recognise and name emotions. And remember that practicing mindfulness and breathing exercises can help children control overwhelming emotions, allowing them to manage their reactions.
If you need guidance, you are welcome to ask for our help. We, at Capulum College, are qualified to guide and advise you.