A meaningful thought

A child who cannot name a feeling often expresses it through behavior: shouting, hitting, withdrawing, or closing a door. They may not be difficult; they may lack words. Help them say, “You feel disappointed,” “You felt embarrassed,” or “You were afraid.” Naming emotion does not excuse behavior; it reveals its source. When children can describe what happens inside, they need less behavior to shout it for them. Words become their first tool for self-regulation.