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🌱 Big Feelings, Little Actions 🌱
Hello Sproutly Families,
Big feelings are a normal part of childhood. Frustration, sadness, anger, worry, excitement. These emotions can feel huge in little bodies. When kids are overwhelmed, they often don’t need big solutions. What helps most is something simple, steady, and doable. A little action that helps them regulate, reconnect, or reset.
As a family therapist, I’ve seen that children don’t learn to calm down because someone tells them to. They learn it when they experience safety and rhythm. Every small action-a deep breath, a walk outside, a gentle hug- teaches their brain and body, “I can handle this.”
Big feelings don’t need big fixes. They need presence, patience, and practice.
In this newsletter, you will get....
Parenting Tips
Photo by Helena Jankovičová Kováčová on Pexels
Helping Kids Take Little Actions in Big Moments
Name It to Tame It
Help your child identify what they’re feeling: “That was really disappointing,” or “You’re feeling mad because your tower fell.” Naming the emotion is the first calming action.Keep It Physical
Movement helps energy move through the body. Try a short walk, jumping in place, blowing bubbles, or stretching together.Simplify Soothing
Big feelings can shrink when kids have predictable comfort strategies—snuggling under a blanket, holding a favorite stuffed animal, or using a calm-down jar.Use Little Phrases
Offer short, steady language instead of long explanations:“I’m right here.”
“You’re safe.”
“Let’s take a breath together.”
Model Small Steps
Show your own regulation in action: “I’m feeling frustrated, so I’m going to take a deep breath before I talk.” Kids learn self-regulation by watching us practice it.
Activity of the Week
Photo by Josh Willink on Pexels
The Calm Cards
You’ll Need:
Small pieces of paper or index cards
Markers or crayons
How to Make It:
With your child, brainstorm small actions that help calm them down—like “hug my blanket,” “breathe in and out,” “draw,” “go outside,” or “ask for help.”
Write or draw one on each card.
Keep the cards in a small box or basket for easy access.
How to Use It:
When big feelings show up, invite your child to choose one card. Doing something concrete helps them feel a sense of control and success, even in tough moments.
Why it works: It gives kids simple tools to regulate emotions without shame or overwhelm.
Every big emotion is an opportunity to build resilience. When children learn that strong feelings can come and go. And that they have tools to help themselves. They gain confidence and trust in their own inner strength.
It’s not about stopping the storm; it’s about helping them find the calm within it.
Warm regards,
Millie & Melissa
The Sproutly Team
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