Materials: Mirror.
STEP 1
Help your child learn how to identify the four basic emotions: happy, sad, scared, and angry. Sit close to your child when they feel one of these emotions.
STEP 2
Use the mirror to show your child what emotion they are feeling. Say, “Your face looks sad. You are crying. This is what sad looks like.”
STEP 3
Help your child with their emotion. Have them take deep breaths, pat them on the back, or hold them close until they are calm. Explain that everyone has emotions.
MAKE IT EASIER:
Place a mirror on the floor during tummy time for your child to see themselves as they play.
EXTEND THE LEARNING:
Have your child point out different faces in books, magazines, and newspapers. Ask your child what emotion you think each person is feeling and why. Have your child make each face and pretend to feel that emotion.