Building Emotional Health
Age 0 Summary
Why Building Emotional Health?
Emotional health begins long before a child can say, “I’m sad,” or “I’m frustrated.” For infants and very young children, their first emotional experiences happen through the way you respond to their cues. As your child grows, their emotional cues may shift — from cries and coos to words and stomps — but your calm presence remains just as important.
● “You are feeling sad right now — I’m here.”
● “You are so excited about your toy!”
Tip: Describing their feelings doesn’t just comfort your child. It helps them develop language for emotions later on.
● “I know you are feeling frustrated — I’m right here.”
● “That loud sound startled you — let’s take a breath together.”
● When your 3-year-old throws a toy, you can say: ‘It looks like you're feeling mad. I’m here to help.’
Tip: Over time, these consistent responses help your child feel safe and supported which are key foundations for emotional well-being.
● “You are feeling so happy — what a big smile!”
● “That toy is making you giggle — I love seeing you so joyful!”
Tip: Small, consistent emotional check-ins, even with an child, help build lasting emotional skills.
● “I’m feeling frustrated, so I’m going to take a breath.”
● “This is hard, but I’m doing my best.”
Tip: The simple act of staying close during your child’s difficult moments is a powerful way to teach them that emotions are both temporary and manageable.
● “I stayed calm when my child was crying — I’m proud of myself for that.”
● “That was a tough moment, but I handled it with patience.”
Tip: Emotional growth isn’t about perfection — it’s about showing up with warmth, consistency, and care.
Recommended Citation: Center for Health and Safety Culture. (2025). Building Emotional Health Age 0 Summary. Retrieved from https://www.ToolsforYourChildsSuccess.org
This content does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Tools for Your Child’s Success communities, financial supporters, contributors, SAMHSA, or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
© 2025 Center for Health and Safety Culture at Montana State University
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