
25/07/2025
Ever picked your child up from school only to be met with grumpiness, tears, or complete silence?
You’re not alone — and your child isn’t being “naughty.” Their nervous system is just running on empty.
After a full day of listening, learning, holding it together, and navigating social dynamics, kids often hit their limit. That’s where the HALT tool can help.
💛 HALT = Hungry, Angry/ Anxious, Lonely, Tired.
These unmet needs can trigger emotional dysregulation, especially in sensitive or neurodivergent kids.
Before we label the after-school meltdown as bad behaviour, let’s pause and ask:
👉 Are they hungry?
👉 Are they holding onto some big feelings?
👉 Did they feel disconnected today?
👉 Are they simply exhausted?
When we meet these needs with curiosity and care, we support their nervous system to feel safe again.
📲 Swipe through to learn how the HALT tool can help your child transition gently from school to home.
You’re not a bad parent. They’re not a bad kid. There’s just a need under the behaviour.