Children's emotional health and wellbeing
The early years are a time of rapid growth - not just physically, but emotionally. Between the ages of 2 and 4, children begin to explore their independence, express their feelings more clearly, and form the foundations of lifelong mental health. For parents and carers, this stage offers a unique opportunity to nurture emotional wellbeing in simple, everyday ways.
What emotional wellbeing means in early childhood
Emotional wellbeing in young children refers to their ability to feel safe, express emotions, build relationships, and begin to understand themselves and others. It’s not about being happy all the time - it’s about helping children feel secure, loved, and able to cope with the ups and downs of daily life.
At this age, children are learning:
how to name and manage emotions like frustration, excitement, and sadness
how to form trusting relationships with adults and peers
how to navigate boundaries and routines
how to seek comfort and reassurance when needed
These skills are the building blocks of mental health and resilience.
Spotting signs of emotional distress
Young children often express emotional challenges through behaviour rather than words. While occasional tantrums or clinginess are normal, persistent changes may signal that your child needs extra support. Look out for:
- frequent meltdowns or aggressive behaviour
- withdrawal from play or interaction
- sleep disturbances or changes in appetite
- regression in skills (e.g. toilet training, speech)
- physical complaints like tummy aches without a clear cause
If you’re concerned, speak to your health visitor, GP, or nursery staff. Early support can make a big difference.
Everyday ways to support emotional wellbeing
You don’t need special training to support your child’s mental health - just a warm, responsive approach and a few simple strategies.
Be present and consistent
Young children thrive on routine and predictability. regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and transitions help them feel safe and secure.
Talk about feelings
Use everyday moments to name emotions: “you’re feeling cross because your tower fell down.” this helps children understand and express their feelings.
Offer comfort and reassurance
When your child is upset, stay close and calm. your presence helps regulate their emotions and builds trust.
Encourage play and creativity
Play is how children process the world. role play, drawing, and storytelling allow them to explore emotions and build confidence.
Model healthy coping
Show your child how you manage stress or disappointment. simple phrases like “i’m feeling a bit tired, so i’m going to sit quietly for a minute” teach emotional regulation.
Building strong relationships
Secure relationships are at the heart of emotional wellbeing. Spend quality time with your child - reading, playing, or simply chatting. Respond to their cues, offer praise for effort, and celebrate their unique personality.
If your child attends nursery or childcare, stay connected with staff and share any concerns. A consistent approach between home and setting helps children feel supported.
When to seek extra help
Sometimes, children need more support than home routines can offer. In the UK, you can access help through:
- your GP or health visitor
- local children's centres
- nursery or early years staff
- charities such as YoungMinds, Place2Be, and Mind
You don’t need a diagnosis to ask for help. Trust your instincts and reach out if something doesn’t feel right.
Final thoughts
Supporting your child’s emotional wellbeing isn’t about getting everything right - it’s about being present, responsive, and loving. The early years are a precious time to lay the foundations for resilience, empathy, and mental health. With your support, your child can grow into a confident, emotionally aware individual ready to face the world.