Childhood is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. While some days are filled with unadulterated joy, others can bring on unexpected waves of sadness or anger. However, it can be particularly challenging to deal with emotions if you’re a seven-year-old. As they grow and develop, children begin to experience and express emotions in more complex ways. But, they may not yet have the tools or the understanding to navigate their feelings adequately.
So, what are some common challenges that seven-year-olds face when dealing with emotions?
1. Difficulty understanding and labeling their emotions
One of the most significant challenges that seven-year-olds face when dealing with emotions is understanding what they feel and finding the right words to describe their feelings. Sometimes they may not recognize what emotions they are experiencing or may confuse different feelings.
2. Overwhelming feelings
Seven-year-olds are still learning how to regulate their emotions, so when they feel something strongly, they may not know how to handle that overwhelming feeling. Even if the emotion is positive, like excitement, it can still be challenging to manage. So, when they feel negative emotions like frustration, disappointment, or sadness, it can be even harder.
3. Difficulty expressing emotions
Even if seven-year-olds can label their emotions, they may have a hard time expressing them. Sometimes they might feel embarrassed or shy to share their emotions, especially if they think it is not cool or proper to show their feelings. Other times, they may fear how others will react or feel like they don’t have the words or means to express what they are feeling.
4. Transitioning from tantrums to proper expression
Seven-year-olds may still have tantrums or emotional outbursts, mainly if they feel like they can’t express themselves adequately. While tantrums might work for young children, they are not ideal for older and more mature kids. Helping them transition from uncontrolled outbursts to proper emotional expression can be a challenging process.
5. Feeling pressured to conform to societal expectations
Seven-year-olds are starting to become more aware of societal expectations, and this includes how they should or should not express their emotions. They may feel pressure to hold their feelings back or hide them, even when they need support. Also, these expectations on how they should act might cause feelings of confusion, guilt, or shame when they don’t meet the expectations from their family or friends.
So, what can parents do to help seven-year-olds deal with their emotions better?
1. Practice emotional labeling and regulation
Helping kids label their emotions and understanding them is an essential part of emotional regulation. Encourage them to talk about what they are feeling and why. You can also teach them relaxation techniques like deep breathing, or doing an activity they enjoy to help them manage overwhelming feelings.
2. Encourage proper emotional expression
Try to help your seven-year-old learn appropriate ways to express their feelings. Encourage them to communicate how they feel, and offer appropriate feedback or emotional support.
3. Model positive emotional expression
One of the best ways to teach kids about emotions is through modeling. They often learn more from seeing how the adults around them deal with emotions than what they are explicitly taught. Be open with your feelings, acknowledge when you are feeling strong emotions, and show how you manage them.
4. Create a positive environment
Make your home environment a safe and comfortable space where your child feels free to express their emotions without fear. Be attentive and present when they share their feelings, and avoid judging or criticizing them.
While dealing with emotions can be tough for seven-year-olds, it is an essential developmental step to handle emotions healthily. By supporting kids through these challenges, parents can help them grow into emotionally resilient adults.I don’t want to forget to recommend you to read about HOW CAN I HELP MY 7-YEAR-OLD DEVELOP A SENSE OF HUMOR? .
Some Statistics
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According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, 7yearolds often struggle with understanding and managing their emotions.
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The study found that 7yearolds often experience difficulty in identifying and labeling their emotions, as well as regulating their emotional responses.
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They also tend to have difficulty understanding the perspective of others and how their own behavior can affect others.
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Additionally, 7yearolds often struggle with controlling impulsive behaviors and expressing their feelings in an appropriate manner.
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Finally, they may have difficulty understanding the consequences of their actions and how those consequences can impact their relationships with others.
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