Feelings Have Names
This video features a game Murray hosts to help us identify emotions and feelings with an array of our favorite Sesame Street characters.
- Watch the video and ask kids to use their faces and bodies to show some different emotions (happy, sad, excited, angry, anxious, grouchy, relaxed).
- Guess which emotions kids are showing. Say how you know: “I think you’re really happy because of the big smile on your face!” or “I think you’re grouchy because you pushed your eyebrows down and crossed your arms.” As you play, kids will be learning the signs and names of different emotions, which will help them talk about their feelings later on.
- Any time you can, name your emotions for kids to show them how to do it. For example, if you’re waiting in a long line at the store, you might say, “I’m feeling impatient right now because there’s a long wait, and we’re in a hurry.” Tell kids what you do when you feel that way, for example: “When I’m feeling impatient, I take three deep breaths.” Ask kids how they’re feeling, and have them try a way of working with that emotion.
Safe & Together
When families have to leave home in order to stay safe, it helps to remember that home is where the love is.
Bubble Time
A quiet activity such as blowing bubbles can help both children and adults breathe deeply, slow down… and calm down.
Crayon Power
Coloring together can soothe both children and grown-ups.
See You Later Alligator
A special, loving good-bye routine can make separations easier.
Friendship Bracelets
When it’s hard to be apart from those we love, the littlest things can become big reminders that someone loves us and is thinking of us.
Cloud Watching
Spending time outside can feel like a “reset” on the day.
Pillow Hugs
Hugging a pillow covered with an item of a loved one’s clothing can help comfort children when they’re missing them.
