Growing up brings lots of feelings. Some feelings are happy and fun. Other feelings can be big and hard.
You may feel sad, mad, scared, worried, or left out. Sometimes, you may not know why you feel that way.
That is okay.
All feelings are important. Learning about your feelings can help you know what you need.
Your feelings matter. And so do you.
All Feelings Are Okay
Everyone has feelings.
You may feel happy when you play with a friend. You may feel sad when something goes wrong. You may also feel mad when something feels unfair.
Sometimes, you may feel more than one thing at the same time.
That is normal.
Feelings are not bad. Instead, they help us understand what is happening inside us.
Learn to Name Your Feelings
It can help to give your feelings a name.
You might say:
- I feel happy.
- I feel sad.
- I feel mad.
- I feel scared.
- I feel worried.
- I feel lonely.
- I feel excited.
- I feel tired.
If you do not know the word, that is okay too.
You can draw your feeling. You can point to a picture. You can also show a trusted adult how you feel.
What Can I Do When I Feel Mad?
Everyone gets mad sometimes.
First, stop and take a slow breath.
Then, take another one.
You can count to five. You can hug a stuffed animal. You can also find a quiet place to calm down.
It is okay to feel mad.
However, it is not okay to hurt yourself or someone else.
When you feel calmer, tell an adult what happened.
What Can I Do When I Feel Worried?
Worry can make your tummy feel funny. It may also make your heart beat fast.
When you feel worried, talk to someone you trust.
You can also take slow breaths. Try holding a favorite toy or blanket. Drawing may help too.
Most of all, remember that you do not have to handle worry by yourself.
Grown-ups can help.
Friendship Should Feel Safe
Good friends are kind.
They listen. They share. They take turns. They also say sorry when they make a mistake.
Friends may not agree all the time. That is okay.
However, a friend should not keep hurting you, scaring you, or making you feel bad.
If that happens, tell a trusted adult.
Bullying Is Not Okay
Bullying can hurt your body or your feelings.
Someone may call you names. They may push or hit you. They may also leave you out again and again.
If someone is bullying you, tell an adult.
If the first person does not help, tell another adult.
Keep telling until someone helps you.
You deserve to feel safe.
Your Body Belongs to You
Your body is yours.
You can tell someone when you do not want a hug or touch.
You can also tell a trusted adult if someone touches you in a way that makes you feel scared, hurt, or uncomfortable.
You will not be in trouble for telling.
Keep telling until someone listens and helps you.
Find Your Safe Adults
A safe adult is someone you can talk to when you need help.
This may be a parent, caregiver, teacher, school counselor, grandparent, or another trusted grown-up.
Think about the safe adults in your life.
Then, remember who you can go to when something feels wrong.
You never have to keep a scary problem to yourself.
Take Care of Your Mind and Body
Your mind and body work together.
So, give your body what it needs.
Eat food that helps you grow. Drink water. Play and move your body. Also, make time for sleep.
Do things that make you smile too.
Draw. Dance. Sing. Play. Read. Spend time outside.
Little things can help you feel good.
It Is Okay to Ask for Help
You do not have to solve every problem alone.
If you feel sad, scared, worried, or unsafe, tell a grown-up you trust.
You can simply say:
“I need help.”
Those are strong words.
You Are Special
There is only one you.
You may learn in your own way. You may like different things. You may be quiet or loud. You may love sports, animals, art, music, books, or something else.
Those differences make you you.
So, be kind to yourself.
Be kind to others.
And always remember:
You are important.
Your feelings matter.
Your voice matters.
You deserve to feel safe, loved, and heard.
App: LCH-Spark
