As your son grows into adolescence, he’ll experience waves of emotion—joy, anger, fear, frustration, excitement, and doubt. These emotions are part of becoming human. But without the right tools, he may not know what to do with them.

That’s where you come in.

Your presence, your example, and your willingness to engage in open, emotionally honest conversations shape how your son will understand himself and the world. Teaching your son about addressing his feelings isn’t just a parenting task—it’s an investment in his lifelong well-being.

It was invaluable the way my dad invited me to express myself without judgment. We didn’t always get it right the first time, but we learned together. That’s what made the bond so strong.

Now, we want to help you create that same connection with your son.

3 Keys to Helping Your Son Understand and Express His Emotions

1. Model What Healthy Emotional Expression Looks Like

Your son learns from what you do, not just what you say.

• Let him see you name your own feelings: “I’m feeling frustrated today, but I’m taking a walk to clear my head.”
• Be honest, but age-appropriate. You’re showing him that strong men feel—and know how to handle their emotions with maturity.
• Avoid bottling it all up. Silence around emotions creates confusion and shame in boys who are trying to understand their own inner world.

Tip: We used to take car rides when things were tense. Something about sitting side by side made it easier to talk. 

2. Help Him Name What He’s Feeling

Many boys don’t act out because they’re bad—they act out because they can’t name what’s going on inside.

• When he seems upset, reflect what you see: “Looks like you’re really disappointed about the game today.”
• Use simple, direct words: mad, proud, sad, nervous, annoyed, excited.
• Let him know it’s okay to feel emotions—but guide him to express them in a way that doesn’t harm himself or others.

Say this when things get intense: “I know you’re upset. That’s normal. Let’s figure out what’s going on together.”

3. Affirm Progress—Even the Small Wins

Your son may not get it right every time, but when he handles a tough moment well, make sure he knows you noticed.

• Say his name, look him in the eye, and be specific: “Avery, I saw how you walked away instead of yelling back. That took strength. I’m proud of you.”
• Praise the effort, not just the outcome.
• Consistent encouragement creates internal confidence.

Words from Brian: “It’s easy to focus on what went wrong. But Avery thrived when I made sure to point out what went right.”

Connection Over Control

Your role isn’t to control your son’s emotions. It’s to teach him how to live with them in healthy, constructive ways. When you model, guide, and affirm, you’re not just raising a boy. You’re shaping a future man with confidence, compassion, and self-awareness.

And remember—you’re not alone on this journey. Like us, you can grow, repair, and deepen your father-son relationship at any stage.

We are rooting for you!

Avery and Brian