As parents and educators, we want the best for our students. We want them to enjoy all the good experiences and to learn and grow from the challenging ones.

Understandably, it can be frustrating to see your student going through feelings of anger and sadness, and we can feel helpless and worried. Though we want to minimize these times, it is not uncommon for students to have these feelings.

It is essential to understand that these feelings typically manifest when a student is experiencing challenging life situations.

Here are some things to keep in mind when helping students navigate their feelings of anger and sadness.

Understand that feeling sad or angry is not a persistent feeling. That though your student may express that they feel this way all the time, they should acknowledge the feeling and identify other feelings they may have experienced. It is important to remember that when we are in a negative mood, we tend to focus only on the negative. This amplifies our negative feelings and pushes back our positive experiences.

Be empathic with your student. Identify with them and communicate your support by expressing that you acknowledge their feelings and are here to listen and help them.

Be patient with your student.

Make sure to take time to show your support and care.

Try to identify specific situations, thoughts, or events that cause your student to feel angry or sad. After identifying these triggers, think about how to help your student manage them.

Do not linger on the negative feelings. Sometimes having long conversations about these feelings may make it worse.

It is essential to find a balance in your discussion. Be aware of your student's behavior and know when to move on from the conversation.

Limit your frustrations. It can be very difficult to temper your feelings; however, it is vital to set a strong, supportive example.

Exercise empathy and communication. As a family, take time to notice gratitude and share positive events that happened during your day. At the bottom of the blog, you can find a positivity worksheet. After everyone completes the worksheet, please make time to have everyone share what they have written down.

Having feelings of anger and sadness can make us feel helpless and frustrated. Remember that these feelings are normal and will eventually resolve. It is important to acknowledge these feelings and to understand them. 

Tagged: After School Program in Fullerton, After School Program in Yorba Linda

Optimus Learning School is a tutoring center in Brea serving Fullerton, Placentia, and Yorba Linda. Since 2008, we have been helping students from kindergarten through high school achieve their academic goals through our various programs such as our home school, after school program, homework help, and private tutoring. We also offer seasonal programs such as our popular summer camp. There are many enrichment classes year-round, such as coding, STEM, piano, and art which will help shape creative and well-rounded students. Are you ready to kickstart your child’s education? Send an inquiry form or contact us today!