"Sharing your feelings is like letting sunshine into your day. It makes our days brighter and helps our hearts grow."
In our everyday lives, amidst the rush to school, work, and play, there's a tiny but crucial thing we sometimes forget – our feelings. Picture this: Aarna, a spirited eight-year-old, had a day full of adventures at school, from giggles with friends to a tricky math lesson. But when she came home, something felt a bit off. As her mom asked about her day, Aarna hesitated, unsure how to put her feelings into words.
You see, Aarna's mom sensed the change in her daughter's usual bubbly behaviour. By gently encouraging Aarna to share what happened, they uncovered the source of her unease – a disagreement with a friend. As Aarna expressed her feelings, she felt a bit relieved. It was a simple conversation, but it made a world of difference to Aarna.
In our own lives, moments like these often slip by. We may rush from one task to another, not realising that understanding and acknowledging our feelings can be the key to feeling good every day. It's not just about grown-ups or kids; it's about all of us.
So, why is it so important to talk about our feelings and emotions, and how can it make a positive impact on our lives, big and small? Let's dive in and discover the magic of expressing our emotions:
The Importance of Expressing Feelings & Emotions
It makes us feel lighter and better. It is a way to unload the burden that accompanies feelings, especially feelings of sadness, anger or frustration.
It fosters empathy and strengthens our connections. When we open up, we allow others to understand our views and perspectives.
It prompts self-reflection. When we understand why certain situations trigger us, we learn more about ourselves.
Why Kids Need to Talk About Feelings & Emotions
Children, with their developing minds and hearts, benefit immensely from learning about feelings and emotions early on.
As children learn to articulate their thoughts and express their feelings, their emotional vocabulary and overall communication skills expand.
As children learn to communicate their feelings and emotions, it helps them handle conflicts in a better manner rather than throwing tantrums.
When children learn to express their feelings and emotions, they become better at handling and regulating them.
The Know Thy Self Card Game: A Playful Approach to Emotional Expression
Not always do we spot the subtle cues in our children's emotions. In our every busy daily lives, where school assignments, work deadlines, and family obligations take precedence, the nuances of a child's feelings might elude our attention.
That's where the Know Thy Self card game comes in – it helps us have special talks about our feelings. When families, teachers, and kids play this game, they start a journey to learn more about themselves and share their feelings.
The Know Thy Self card game becomes a bridge between generations and a key to unlocking conversations about feelings that might otherwise remain unspoken. With over 50 questions about feelings and emotions, this game invites participants to explore and articulate their emotions, fostering a culture where the magic of expression is celebrated.
Why integrate the Know Thy Self card game into our lives?
The game provides a structured and safe environment for children to express themselves. By turning talking about feelings and emotions into a game, children feel less pressured and more willing to share their feelings.
With a deck covering a diverse array of emotions, the Know Thy Self game helps build an extensive emotional vocabulary. This, in turn, empowers children to articulate their feelings more precisely.
Conversations about feelings create a special connection between parents/teachers and children. When we open up to each other, it builds trust and makes our relationships stronger.
By encouraging regular discussions about feelings and emotions it becomes a tool for fostering emotional resilience and a positive mindset.
Summary
It is essential to foster an environment where children and even us adults can talk freely about their feelings and emotions. It enhances our social and emotional learning skills (SEL). It builds essential life skills like communication and critical thinking skills.
Together, let's foster a culture where talking about feelings and emotions is celebrated as a fundamental building block for everyone.