Phrases for Validating Your Child’s Emotions
Phrases for Validating Your Child’s Emotions
Validating a child’s emotions helps them feel seen, heard, and supported, which builds emotional intelligence, trust, and resilience. Here are several helpful phrases, organized by intention:
Adolescents
“It sounds like you’ve been dealing with a lot.”
“That really does seem like a tough situation.”
“I can tell this matters to you.”
“You have every right to feel the way you do.”
“That makes total sense. I get why that would bother you.”
Adolescents
“I’d probably feel the same way if I were in your shoes.”
“That’s completely valid. Anyone would be upset about that.”
“It’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes.”
“I hear you. That would be hard for anyone.”
Adolescents
“You don’t have to go through this by yourself.”
“I’m here to talk or just listen. Whatever you need.”
“Thanks for sharing. That takes courage.”
Adolescents
“Do you think what you’re feeling is more like stress or pressure?”
“It seems like you’re frustrated. Is that how it feels to you?”
“Sometimes when things pile up, it’s hard to tell what we’re really feeling, want to talk it through?”
Adolescents
“There’s no pressure to figure it all out right now.”
“It’s okay to not be okay, you don’t have to have it all together.”
“You’re allowed to feel whatever you’re feeling. No judgment.”
“You’re not being dramatic; what you’re feeling is real.”
Additional resources can be found on the Virginia Department of Education’s
This document is intended as general guidance. Always consult with a licensed mental health professional for advice tailored to your child’s specific needs.