Emotions Commonly Displayed in Children
Positive Emotions
- Joy
- Smiling, laughing, giggling
- Excited, energetic
- Playful, silly
- Interest
- Curious, engaged
- Asking questions
- Exploring
- Love
- Affectionate, caring
- Sharing, helping
- Empathizing
- Pride
- Accomplished, satisfied
- Beaming, confident
- Eager to share successes
Negative Emotions
- Sadness
- Crying, whimpering
- Withdrawn, quiet
- Lonely, isolated
- Fear
- Anxious, frightened
- Hiding, trembling
- Clinging to others
- Anger
- Crying, screaming
- Throwing things, hitting
- Swearing, name-calling
- Disgust
- Making faces
- Avoiding certain objects or people
- Gagging, spitting
- Embarrassment
- Flushing, hiding
- Avoiding eye contact
- Mumbling, stuttering
Other Emotions
- Surprise
- Wide-eyed, open mouth
- Gasping, exclaiming
- Freezing in place
- Anticipation
- Excited, eager
- Waiting, fidgeting
- Bouncing up and down
- Boredom
- Yawning, sighing
- Restless, fidgeting
- Uninterested, distracted
- Confusion
- Frowning, puzzled
- Asking questions
- Seeking clarification