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Preschoolers are developing social skills and emotional awareness. They’re eager to please but still learning self-control.
Quick Tips for Everyday Success
- Play together. Play is how young children learn problem-solving and empathy.
- Use emotion words. Encourage them to describe how they feel — and praise them when they do.
- Set clear expectations. Consistent boundaries help them feel secure.
- Praise effort, not just results. Say, “I’m proud of how you tried!” to build resilience and motivation.
Behavioral Health Tip: When preschoolers misbehave, they often need connection, not correction. A hug or calm conversation can do wonders.
Common Challenges and How to Respond
Tantrums and Meltdowns (Toddlers–Preschool)
What’s happening: Young children are overwhelmed and lack words to express frustration.
Try this:
- Stay calm — your calm helps them calm down.
- Get on their level and acknowledge their feelings (“You’re mad we can’t stay at the park”).
- Talk about what happened afterward, when they’re ready.
Avoid: Yelling or long explanations — toddlers can’t process those when upset.
Difficulty Sharing or Taking Turns (Preschool–K–3)
What’s happening: Kids are learning social skills and self-control.
Try this:
- Use gentle reminders and praise sharing when it happens.
- Use timers or turn-taking games.
- Highlight how sharing makes others feel happy and connected.