By taking time to read or tell stories together, you can help your child feel safe and close. After completing a story, find ways to open conversation. Allow the child to process the content, then share thoughts. Often children will talk about characters, not themselves. At some point the emphasis shifts from the book to the shared experience.
Children often can make the leap from the story to their lives.
Parents and children can also share feelings by looking at family photographs and family videotapes. Play Particularly for young children, play is the primary means of expressing feelings. Sometimes parents can tell how children are feeling by watching their play or playing with them. Take care not to impose your opinions on the child's feelings during play. Join in play only if asked.