Big feelings, little monsters: helping kids name what they feel

Every parent knows the moment. One second your child is giggling, the next they're a tiny thundercloud on the kitchen floor. Big feelings are a normal part of growing up, but little ones often don't have the words for them yet. That's where monsters come in.

Every Monstees monster is a feeling kids already know by heart. Giving a feeling a funny face and a name makes it less scary and much easier to talk about. Here's the gang, and a playful idea for each one.

Bloop: the giggles

Bloop's superpower is laughing at absolutely everything. His weakness? Bedtime.

Try this: when your kid is in a Bloop mood, ask them what made them laugh today. Happy feelings deserve a name too, and noticing them helps kids spot the good bits of their day.

Grumble: the big feelings

Grumble's superpower is a very, very loud "NO!". His secret weakness is that he loves a hug.

Try this: instead of "stop being grumpy", try "it looks like Grumble is visiting. What's bothering him?" Talking about the monster gives kids a little distance from the feeling, so it's easier to say what's wrong. Grumble's motto: feelings are allowed.

Oops: the tries-again

Oops knocks things over, then tries again (and again). Anything breakable, watch out.

Try this: when a tower falls or a drawing goes wrong, say "Oops moment! Want to try again?" It turns a mistake into part of learning, not the end of the world.

Snooze: the cuddles

Snooze can find the comfiest spot in any house. Mornings, though? Not a fan.

Try this: when your little one is tired or needs closeness, call it a Snooze moment. Kids learn that wanting a cuddle or quiet time is a feeling too, and a perfectly good one.

Make it a family game

• Morning check-in: "Which monster are you today?" Grown-ups answer too.
• Draw your own monster. What colour is "excited"? How many eyes does "nervous" have?
• Wear the mood. Twinning in the same monster tee is a fun way to say "I get it, I feel that too."

There's no wrong monster to be. Giggles, grumbles, oopsies and cuddles are all welcome here.