If you’re grumpy and you know it, make a face

Your toddler is in a verbal growth spurt. And with the terrible two’s looming, or in full gear, it’s a perfect time to help him learn new words, and develop his emotional vocabulary. Much of a toddler’s frustration comes from not knowing how to say what all the fuss is about. You can help him learn those words by making a game to a favorite song.

If your toddler is frustrated, angry, or sad, label the emotion. “I can see that you're upset about your brother taking your blocks, and you can say that you’re upset about that.” With enough repetition, your toddler will be able to explain it for himself.

In the meantime, a favorite toddler song is “If You’re Happy and You Know It.” Help him learn more words and build an emotional vocabulary. Sing about the good and bad behaviors and show him what to do about it.

If you’re sad and you know it, give me a hug.

If you’re angry and you know it, count to three.

If you’re brave and you know it, stand up tall.

If you’re scared and you know it, call for me.

Have fun acting out these behaviors and singing the solution.