18/09/2025
How to Handle a Child's Meltdown
The key is not to suppress their feelings, but to help them regulate and learn self-control.
1. First Step: Stay Calm Yourself
· Why? A child's brain is overwhelmed during a meltdown. If you get upset or stressed, it will only make things worse. They need a calm, stable anchor.
· How? Take a deep breath. Use a soft, gentle, and firm voice.
2. Validate Their Feelings
· Why? Children feel that their emotions are wrong or invalid. Validating them reduces tension and makes them feel understood.
· How? Name the emotion you think they're feeling.
· "I understand you're really upset because you wanted that toy. It's disappointing when we can't get what we want."
· "You seem really frustrated because it's time to go. Is that right?"
3. Offer Limited Choices
· Why? It gives the child a sense of control over the situation. Instead of a power struggle, it becomes a collaboration.
· How?
· "It's time to leave. Would you like me to carry you to the car, or would you like to walk like a dinosaur?"
· "Would you like to wash your hands in the bathroom or with a wet wipe here?"
4. Distract or Redirect
· Why? A child's brain can easily be shifted to something new and interesting.
· How?
· "Wow, look at that big red truck outside!"
· "Oh, we have to go home to see if the dog is waiting for us!"
5. Set a Clear Boundary with Empathy
· Why? It teaches them that all feelings are okay, but not all behaviors are.
· How?
· "I know you're angry, but I cannot let you hit. Hitting hurts. You can hit this pillow instead if you need to."
· "It's okay to be sad, but we still have to leave now."
