Families For Life | Emotions and Play: School-Age Children

Growing Emotional Skills

As children enter their school years, they begin putting into practice the emotional skills they learned during early childhood. They are learning how to recognise, manage, and express their feelings appropriately, which helps them build friendships, cooperate with others, and adapt to the school environment.

Why Play Still Matters

Play remains one of the most effective ways for children to explore and understand their emotions. Through activities such as sports, music, art, imaginative play, and outdoor games, children learn to express feelings, cope with challenges, and build emotional resilience. Playing with parents is especially valuable, as it provides a safe space for children to experience and manage emotions while strengthening the parent-child bond.

What to Expect Emotionally

During the school years, children often become more independent and begin experiencing stronger emotions, including pride, joy, jealousy, envy, and anger. They gradually learn to understand that other people have feelings and perspectives that may differ from their own. Close friendships also become increasingly important, although disagreements about rules and fairness may sometimes lead to conflicts that require adult guidance.

Supporting Your Child

School-age children encounter many new experiences and emotions, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. Parents can support their children by listening attentively, showing affection, and creating opportunities for meaningful conversations. Instead of asking broad questions such as “How was school?”, try asking more specific questions about their friends, activities, or favourite parts of the day.

Play Activities That Encourage Emotional Growth

Children can express and manage their emotions through a variety of play experiences, including:

• Drawing, painting, and other creative art activities

• Music, dancing, and learning to play instruments

• Sensory play, such as playing with sand or mud

• Role-playing with toys, puppets, or dress-up costumes

• Outdoor activities like running, climbing, and ball games

Allowing children to choose their own play activities can also help them feel confident and in control, making it easier for them to express their feelings.

Be Aware of Bullying

As children spend more time with their peers, bullying may become a concern. If you suspect your child is being bullied or bullying others, it is important to step in early. Working together with your child and their teachers can help address the issue and ensure that your child feels safe and supported.

Building Emotional Resilience Through Play

Play, positive relationships, and parental support all play an important role in helping school-age children understand their emotions. By providing a caring and supportive environment, parents can help their children develop confidence, emotional resilience, and healthy relationships with others.