Is This Normal? Understanding Your Child’s Big Emotions at Every Age

As a parent, it can be tough to know if your child’s big emotions are typical or if they need extra support. Every stage of development brings new challenges, and understanding what’s normal can help you feel more confident in responding to your child’s needs.

Toddlers (1-3 years) – Tantrums, defiance, and difficulty sharing are common at this stage. Young children are learning to express themselves but don’t yet have the language or self-regulation skills to do so effectively.

Preschoolers (3-5 years) – Fears, imaginary play, and testing boundaries emerge. Kids this age may struggle with transitions, want control over their environment, and experience strong emotional swings.

Early Elementary (6-8 years) – Sensitivity to fairness, frustration with mistakes, and peer comparisons can cause emotional ups and downs. This is also when kids begin to develop more complex friendships and social concerns.

Older Elementary (9-12 years) – Identity development, self-esteem struggles, and increased independence mark this stage. Kids may feel pressure to fit in, worry about their abilities, or experience anxiety about school and friendships.

While big emotions are a normal part of growing up, persistent distress, trouble managing emotions, or challenges that impact daily life may indicate a need for additional support. Play therapy provides a safe space for kids to process their feelings, build emotional resilience, and develop coping skills. By working through emotions in a child-led environment, kids learn to express themselves in healthy ways and feel empowered in their experiences.

If your child’s emotions feel overwhelming—for them or for you—you’re not alone. Seeking support doesn’t mean something is wrong; it means you’re giving your child the tools they need to thrive. If you’re curious about how play therapy can help, reach out to us at Empowered Play!