According to Snowden, 2018, Anger is a difficult feeling for children. It can make them want to destroy things or hurl comments that hurt others. With the right tools and techniques, even young children can be taught to see anger differently and maintain or regain control over how they feel.
Mastery of such techniques is important in childhood and crucial as children reach adolescence, where unchecked anger can have a “variety of maladaptive adolescent outcomes” (Ho, Carter, & Stephenson, 2010, p. 246).
The passages quoted above from experts in emotional intelligence indicate the importance of teaching our children anger management skills. In my previous article, we explored the significance of teaching our children techniques for controlling their anger. In that context, one of these essential skills was examined. In the following article, we will delve into more of these skills.
Take responsibility for your conduct:
If you find yourself losing your cool in the presence of your children. Apologize and start a discussion about better appropriate replies. “I’m sorry you had to witness me raising my voice today when I was upset,” you can say. Instead, I should have gone for a walk to get some fresh air. “Next time, I’ll do better.”
Distinguish between emotions and actions:
Encourage children to identify and define their emotions so that they can communicate their sentiments of rage, irritation, or disappointment. For example, you could remark, “It’s okay to be angry, but it’s not okay to resort to physical aggression.” This technique teaches kids that they have control over their actions even when they are upset.