~Don't end it with happy or sad! Besty's way of spreading words~
"I know the words happy and angry, but I haven't grown up using them to express my feelings in English..."
For those moms who like to use English at home, we'd like to introduce 4 steps to help your child develop the ability to express their emotions in English!
STEP 1 | First, words: link them to facial expressions and gestures
Input commonly used emotional words such as "happy," "sad," "angry," "tired," and "scared" through picture cards, picture books, and facial expressions!
It can also be effective if the stuffed animal or the mother deliberately exaggerates her facial expression and says something like, "I'm so sad..."
🌱Bestie's Points🌱
Emotional words are easy to imagine, but if you stop at STEP 1, you'll end up thinking, "I know it, but it's not how I feel."
Have your child say a set of sentences that express their feelings, such as "I'm happy!" and "You look angry!"
STEP 2 | Connect with your experience: Putting real feelings into words
・Falled → “Ouch… I'm sad.”
・I won! → “Yay! I'm so happy!”
・There are no snacks! → “I'm angry!”
・After a nap → “I'm still sleepy…”
By combining English with the real feelings you have at that moment, the words will become your own.
🌱Bestie's Points🌱
Emotions are remembered along with experiences.
When you use English to express small everyday feelings, words become a tool for conveying emotions.
STEP 3 | Communicate through phrases: Exchange feelings
・How do you feel?
・Are you okay?
・I feel sad today.
・You look tired.
Moms can also help develop English communication by using phrases that show they notice and are supportive.
🌱Bestie's Points🌱
“The experience of "having someone understand your feelings" creates a sense of security when using English.
Let's develop both the ability to communicate and receive through short exchanges.
STEP 4 | Expand into play and everyday life: Get into the habit of choosing and expressing your feelings in English!
・Let's draw your feelings!
・Point to how you feel.
・You said “I'm tired,” so let's take a break.
・What made you happy today?
It's effective when combined with activities and time that allow children to express their feelings, such as drawing, playing with stickers, or reflecting on the day!
🌱Bestie's Points🌱
Because emotions are "invisible," being able to express them represents great growth!
The experience of "expressing your feelings in your own words" will greatly deepen your foundation in English.
Summary | Feelings are a treasure trove that develops the ability to put things into words
Emotions change every day.
That's why I'm able to communicate in English every day.
Today, when my child came home from kindergarten,
“Try asking, "How do you feel today?"
These questions from mothers will greatly deepen their children's understanding of English.
