Very Expressive Toddlers!

One important part of childhood is learning to explore self-expression and feelings. Being able to articulate feelings is critical, and so Miss Leslie has been working with the toddler class and helping them learn to do so. She has been reading a book with discusses the different emotions, and then encourages the children to practice their expressive faces. Our toddlers are already meeting kindergarten curriculum expectations! Way to go, toddlers!
From the Ontario Kindergarten Curriculum:
Emotional development:
1.3 express their thoughts
2.2 demonstrate a willingness to try new activities
2.5 interact cooperatively with others in classroom events and activities
Social development:
1.2
demonstrate the ability to take turns in activities and discussions (e.g., engage in play activities with others, listen to peers and adults)
3.1 develop empathy for others, and acknowledge and respond to each other’s feelings

Happy!

Sad

Worried

Concerned

Shy

Excited

Frightened

Angry!

Embarrassed.

Silly!

Another silly face! Can you tell we love this one?

Proud!

Scary!

If you are interested in extending this activity and working on expressing feelings at home, check out the book "Today I Feel Silly!" By Jamie Lee Curtis. Encourage your child to draw and label expressive faces using a blank template. Or, make expressing feelings a part of your daily routine! Use a "this morning I feel ______" statement during breakfast routine, and encourage your child to express their feelings when they seem frustrated or upset.