If you have a toddler or preschooler, big feelings probably show up more often than you’d expect. Tears over small things. Big reactions to being told “not right now”. Emotional moments that seem to come out of nowhere, especially at the end of a long day.
It can be tough to navigate, particularly when you’re already juggling work, routines, and family life. But here’s something many parents find reassuring to hear: big feelings are a normal part of growing up.
At Aussie Kindies, we support children and families through these early years by helping children feel safe, supported, and understood as they learn how to manage their emotions.
What Are “Big Feelings”?
Big feelings are strong emotions that young children don’t yet know how to manage on their own. These can include:
- Frustration
- Anger
- Excitement
- Anxiety
- Disappointment
- Feeling overwhelmed
For children aged 1-5 years, emotions often arrive before the words or skills needed to explain them. That’s why feelings are often shown through behaviour - crying, shouting, withdrawing, or refusing to cooperate.
According to Raising Children Network, tantrums and emotional outbursts are common in the early years because children are still developing emotional regulation and coping skills.
What’s Normal for Toddlers (1-3 Years)?
Toddlers are learning independence, but they still need lots of support from trusted adults.
At this age, it’s normal to see:
- Sudden tantrums
- Difficulty waiting or sharing
- Big reactions to changes in routine
- Strong emotions when tired, hungry, or overstimulated
These moments don’t mean your child is being “difficult”. They’re learning how emotions work, and they need calm adults to guide them through it.
What’s Normal for Preschoolers (3-5 Years)?
Preschoolers have more language and awareness, but emotional control is still developing.
You might notice:
- Big feelings around friendships or fairness
- Worry about new situations
- Emotional exhaustion after busy days
- Strong reactions even when expectations are clear
The Australian Institute of Family Studies explains that emotional self-regulation continues to develop throughout early childhood and into the school years.
Why Big Feelings Often Show Up During Learning
Big feelings often appear when children are learning something new or navigating change.
This can include:
- Learning to share or take turns
- Managing disappointment
- Navigating friendships
- Adjusting to routines or transitions
The Early Years Learning Framework highlights emotional wellbeing as essential to learning, recognising that children learn best when they feel safe, secure, and supported.
With calm support, these emotional moments help children build confidence, resilience, and empathy over time.
How Aussie Kindies Supports Children Through Big Feelings
At Aussie Kindies, emotional wellbeing is part of everyday learning through our Lifelong Learning Curriculum.
Our educators support children by:
- Responding calmly and consistently during emotional moments
- Helping children name feelings in simple, age-appropriate ways
- Maintaining familiar routines that support emotional regulation
- Offering reassurance and connection when children feel overwhelmed
- Working closely with families to ensure consistency between home and care
Rather than rushing children through emotions, we support them step by step, helping children feel safe as they learn and grow.
You can learn more about our approach to early learning here.
When Might Families Seek Extra Support?
Big feelings are expected in early childhood, but it’s okay to seek guidance if:
- Emotional outbursts are increasing over time
- Your child seems withdrawn or anxious for long periods
- Behaviour is affecting daily routines
- You’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed
Your child’s educators are a great place to start - we’re here to support families and work together.
You’re Doing Better Than You Think
Supporting a young child through big feelings can be challenging, especially on busy days. Emotional development isn’t about getting everything right; it’s about offering patience, understanding, and connection.
At Aussie Kindies, we work alongside families to help children build emotional skills that support learning, friendships, and confidence for the future.
If you’d like to see how emotional wellbeing is supported at Aussie Kindies, we’d love to welcome you for a tour.
Find your nearest Aussie Kindies Early Learning Centre here.