From around 10 to 12 months old, babies start to read and interpret the facial expressions of those around them, using these cues to navigate unfamiliar or unclear situations. By the time they reach the Friendly Frogs stage, children have developed and refined this skill, though they may still rely on broad emotional categories, such as “happy” or “sad,” to describe their feelings. Supporting Friendly Frogs in identifying and articulating their emotions is key to their emotional development. By helping them label and understand what they are experiencing internally, we empower them to gain insight into their emotional world. This, in turn, allows them to begin recognising and responding to the emotions of others. The ability to comprehend and express emotions is a crucial part of building emotional intelligence. Fostering this awareness in Friendly Frogs will not only support their social interactions but also aid in developing empathy, self-regulation, and a deeper understanding of themselves and the people around them.
