What does real emotional attunement look like across different ages (toddlers vs. preteens)? 

The ability to read your child’s emotional state by their body language, mood, and behaviour in addition to their words is known as emotional attunement. For young children, this entails paying close attention to nonverbal clues such as shifts in tone, energy, or facial expression. Respond warmly, offer consolation, and gently name their feelings (e.g., ‘You seem sad because the toy broke’). For extremely young toddlers, who may not always be able to express their feelings verbally, physical presence, regular rituals, and a soothing tone provide a sense of security. Being emotionally available without interfering becomes increasingly important when kids enter the preteen years. This entails paying attention, interpreting what they say, and confirming their experiences, even if they are different from your own. The ability to see the heart behind a behaviour and react with empathy before acting is known as emotional attunement. Although it gradually adapts with age, its foundation is always compassion and presence.