The start of a new year isn’t just exciting for adults—it can stir up big feelings for kids, too! New schedules, returning to school after a break, or even just the excitement of fresh starts can leave children feeling all sorts of emotions at once.

Why the New Year Brings Big Feelings for Kids

Even small changes in routine can feel huge to a child. The transition from holiday fun back to school or activities can create a mix of excitement, worry, or even sadness. Kids may not have the words to express what they’re feeling, which can sometimes lead to frustration or acting out.

Common Emotions Children Experience After Routine Changes

Kids might feel:

• Excited about new adventures or goals

• Anxious about returning to school or new routines

• Frustrated if things feel different or confusing

• Proud of small achievements, like finishing a project or learning a new skill

Recognizing these feelings is the first step toward helping kids manage them safely.

Lil’ Iguana Lessons & Resources to the Rescue!

In our Emotional Awareness and Harm Alarm lessons, children learn to notice their emotions and understand what their bodies are telling them. The Harm Alarm teaches kids that it’s okay to feel uncomfortable and to speak up when something doesn’t feel right, helping them build safety and confidence in expressing feelings.

Singing, dancing, or even role-playing with toys helps children explore emotions in a playful, low-pressure way. Music and movement give kids a safe outlet to express feelings, making it easier to talk about them later.

One of the best ways to help kids recognize and name their emotions is to use our Lil’ Iguana Feelings Calendar every day! Tracking feelings daily helps children identify patterns, celebrate wins, and notice when something feels off, building emotional awareness that lasts all year long.

Tip: Pair the Feelings Calendar (included in the “How Am I Feeling?” Toolkit) with small moments of discussion each day. Ask questions like, “What made you happy today?” or “Did anything make you feel nervous?”