Kimochis

Happy, Sad, Mad and All Sorts of Cute

Meltdowns and frustration are a normal part of childhood. There are several reasons they happen, of course, but one of the big ones is simply that it can be really hard for our little ones to make sense of all their new big feelings. As adults we often make a mess of our emotions and for those just learning the ropes, there are moments it's all too much! Unfortunately, for us grown ups we all too often get flustered and try to teach in the moment and if you're child is anything thing like mine that moment is probably his least receptive.

Kimochis have set out to simplify and make sense of all that feeling stuff and their characters do an amazing job. The whimsical creatures are emotional beings who's cute faces and snuggly bodies appeal to tots, tykes and even bigger kids. These aren't just dolls though, each Kimochi [$25 each] comes with a bit of a back story- moody, unpredictable Cloud lives in the big sky and his favorite number is 9, while affectionate Huggtapus plays the xylophone and has an affinity for bubble gum. With their developed characters they each have positive character traits and some messy, undesirables they need some help to work on (sound familiar?).

You can help your little one (and their Kimochi, of course) work through their emotions with the help of the adorable "child-safe feeling" characters that pop right in your Kimochis belly pouch. Each character comes with three emotions (our buddy Cloud is happy, sad and mad) and you can add on other emotions as needed [$12 for 6 feelings]. The feel guide that comes along with each doll is also an amazing resource in helping you work with your child through their emotions. The 4 step "Create, Communicate, Create and Practice" process breaks down what can otherwise be overwhelming.

Everyone deserves a do-over and these guys aid beautifully in doing just that. With just a little bit of practice my little guy will now reenact and role play with his "feelings" to work through the yucky stuff. Feelings can be yucky, messy stuff but with some work, patience and plenty of play you can help your kids build confidence and character in all those emotions.

Win it!
We're giving away a Kimochi of the winners choice! To enter, email giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com, with Kimochi as your subject and let us know what Kimochi means in Japanese. Also include your choice of Cloud, Bug or Huggtopus.