Emoticon:
An Emotional Regulation Group for Kids
Does your child struggle with angry outbursts, meltdowns or feeling out of control when things get tough?
Emoticon is an 8-week, in-person therapy group in Waterloo that teaches children how to notice, name and tame their BIG emotions before they flood in and hijack the moment.
Through games, stories and activities kids build emotional regulation skills they can use in everyday life and confidence that will serve them a lifetime.
Emoticon really helped our child to identify his emotions and view them as messages that his body is telling him. The coping strategies are easy for him to remember when he is in the middle of an emotional situation.
~ Parent of child
What Emoticon is All About
Emoticon is designed just for kids, making it feel more like an adventure than a class!
Inclusive of neurodivergent kids, including those with ADHD, Emoticon engages kids with games, playful challeges and group activities that teach kids how to name, tame and manage their emotions. There are also times to slow down for reflection and self-awareness, creating space for kids to notice what is happening inside and discover strategies that help them feel more regulated and connected.
Alongside the kids’ program, parents attend a one-time session to learn about the group’s approach and share insights about their child. Each week, parents also receive practical tips and updates to help support their child’s new skills at home.
Emoticon helps kids unlock their emotional intelligence – empowering them with the real-life tools to build resilience and handle tough situations with confidence.
Emotional Regulation Leads to Emotional Intelligence
Emotional regulation is about more than simply learning to “stay calm.” It’s the ability to recognize, manage and express a wide range of emotions in healthy ways that fit the situation.
As kids develop emotional regulation skills, they build emotional intelligence that supports them far beyond managing big feelings. These skills can help kids develop:
- Greater confidence
- Stronger self-esteem
- Increased resilience
- Deeper empathy
- Healthier relationships
Learning to understand and work with their emotions gives kids tools they can carry with them—in friendships, at home, at school, and as they grow.
Emoticon is brilliant! Not all kids cope well with big feelings – so to normalize them and talk about them in an interactive way as well as give tools to continue the conversation at home was amazing for our child.”
~ Parent of participant
Emoticon is Coming Again Soon
Our next Emoticon group is forming for 2027, and our waiting list is now open.
Contact us today to join the list, and we’ll email you with registration details as soon as they’re available, giving you priority access when registration opens.
Understanding and processing emotions is an important part of a child’s mental, emotional and relational well-being.
Help your child become an Emoticon pro!
Join the 2027 waiting list today.
Who: ages 9-11
Format: In person
Location: 4-60 Baffin Place, Waterloo
Dates: TBD
Time: 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Cost: $700*/8 weeks including parent session
Facilitator: TBD
* This group is covered by most extended health benefits plans. Financial assistance may also be available from New Life Charity. Contact our office for details.
Therapy & Counselling Services
Individual Therapy
We hold space for you to address and process the issues concerning you. Experience hope, healing and peace in a healthy, professional and confidential relationship.
Couples Therapy
Learn to attune to one another, communicate, and set healthy boundaries while working through the situations you are facing as a couple. Learn more in our FAQ section.
Family Therapy
We work with you and members of your family to strengthen your relationships by fostering attachment-based connections and healthy communication.
Children & Teens
We specialize in supporting children in their mental, emotional and social health in a way that is safe and engaging – meeting your child right where they are at.
Young Adults
We provide a non-judgemental space to help you discover your identity, learn how to handle stress and set direction for your future. Heal yourself and your relationships.
Art Therapy
Discover art therapy as an excellent choice to creatively express your internal emotions and process your experiences through colour and medium. No art expereince required!
Music Therapy
Tune in to your inner world through the creative space of music therapy. Explore the use sounds, lyrics and rhythm with your therapist to express your feelings and experiences. No musical training required.
Groups
We host groups for DBT Skills, Emotional Regulation, Parenting Workshops and more. Our facilitators create a safe learning environment and offer professional, practical and relatable support.
Prayer Counselling
Experience a form of counselling where you can engage your faith and spirituality as you address trauma, generational patterns, addictions, and emotional woundedness.