Toddlers typically do not understand the more abstract meanings of the words they use. Their language is very idiosyncratic - e.g., understanding the concepts big, bigger, biggest. An important contribution of caregivers to cognitive growth is the opportunity for interactions. Language and fantasy are children's most useful tools for managing impulses. Parents can articulate what might be thought of as the family or cultural rules of emotional expression.
Adults help modify the intensity of emotions through reassuring or distracting talk.
Adults may give children ideas for ways to manage their impulses. Children listen to adults talking about their own strong emotions and impulses. They use imitation to control their own emotions. Temperament c. Quality of the mother-infant attachment. Think about ways that you would assess these factors in clinical practice.