In a mental health crisis? Call or text 988.
Get help:
(Medi-Cal)
In a mental health crisis? Call or text 988.

CHC Resource Library

Learning Emotional Intelligence

Exposure to frustration can help

Strategies to try

  • Teach problem-solving skills that children can use when they’re facing frustrating situations. They can learn to identify the problem, brainstorm possible solutions, evaluate the pros and cons and choose the best course of action.
  • Help them learn to recognize and label their emotions: Encourage your child to talk about their emotions and give them a safe space to express their feelings without judgment.
  • Encourage a growth mindset: A growth mindset is a powerful tool for developing frustration tolerance. Children can learn that setbacks and failures are opportunities for growth and learning, and that challenges can be stepping stones rather than insurmountable obstacles.
  • Celebrate effort: Acknowledge your child’s progress and resilience in managing frustration. Be specific and genuine in praising your child’s perseverance, problem-solving skills and ability to bounce back from setbacks.
  • Create a supportive environment: Children need a nurturing environment in order to build frustration tolerance. You can help by providing open communication, reassurance and opportunities for shared experiences and learning.

What to expect at different ages and stages

  • Toddlers (ages 1 to 3) are developing their emotional regulation skills. They may not have the language to express their frustration, so they might have tantrums or meltdowns.
  • Preschoolers (ages 3 to 5) are better able to verbally communicate their frustrations. It can still be hard for them to manage intense emotions, but they can start to learn coping strategies.
  • Early elementary school-age children (ages 6 to 8) develop more self-control and problem-solving skills. They start to understand delayed gratification and can more constructively cope with frustration.
  • Late elementary school-age children (ages 9 to 12) can reason more effectively, but academic and social challenges can add to their frustration.
  • Adolescents (age 13 and older) face unique challenges with frustration since they deal with issues of identity, independence and peer relationships. They might be frustrated with academics or conflicts with friends or family.

How to be a good role model

Source: Banner Health | How to Help Your Child Learn Healthy Ways to Tolerate Frustration, https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/advise-me/how-to-help-your-child-learn-healthy-ways-to-tolerate-frustration | © 2024 By Banner Health. Retrieved June 2024.

This resource is filed under:

Back to Top