Self-Control

Emotions influence behavior. Part of growing up is learning how to manage our emotions and exercise self-control so that we can treat ourselves and others with respect. Sometimes that means resisting what we want to do in the moment (like throwing something when we’re mad) and making a more thoughtful choice instead. Two-year-olds can easily become overwhelmed by “big emotions” – including anger, fear and excitement. They often need our direct intervention to help them “cool down.”