Name That Feeling Narration Walk
Narrate the emotions you see during a walk together — 'That dog looks happy!' — building your toddler's emotional vocabulary naturally.
What You'll Need
No materials needed — just your regular walk and an observant eye
How to Play
Head out on any walk — to the park, the store, around the neighborhood.
Start noticing and narrating emotions you see along the way.
"Look at that dog wagging its tail! I think it's feeling happy."
"That baby in the stroller is crying. Maybe it's tired or hungry?"
Share your own feelings: "This warm sunshine makes me feel so happy."
Ask your toddler what they notice: "How do you think that kid feels?"
Connect observations to their life: "You smile like that when you see the playground!"
Why It Works
Emotional vocabulary doesn't develop from flashcards — it develops from real life. When you narrate emotions during a walk, you're giving your toddler a living textbook of human feelings. They see a crying baby and hear you name the emotion. They see a laughing child and learn what joy looks like on another face. Over time, this constant narration builds the emotional vocabulary they need to name their own feelings, which is the first step in managing them.
Tips
Don't quiz your toddler. Narrate more than you ask. They're absorbing even when they don't answer.
Include animals and even objects: "That flower is drooping — it looks sad. It needs water!"
Keep it simple for younger toddlers: happy, sad, mad, scared. Add complexity as they grow.
This works indoors too — narrate feelings in picture books, TV shows, or during sibling interactions.
Age Adaptation Tips
Toddlers learn through repetition. Keep it simple, expect mess, and let them explore at their own pace. Demonstrate first, then let them try.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 20 min, with 0 min of preparation time beforehand.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 1-3 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Does this need to be done outdoors?
This activity is best done outdoors where kids have space to move and explore.
How difficult is this activity?
This is an easy activity that requires minimal setup and supervision. Great for busy days or when you need something quick.
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