02/12/2026
Children are not born knowing how to handle big feelings. When a child shouts, melts down, hits, shuts down, or runs away, it is not bad behaviour. It is a sign their nervous system is overwhelmed and they need support, not punishment.
Emotional regulation is about helping children feel safe in their bodies, understand their feelings, and learn what to do when emotions feel too big. Children borrow calm from adults. They learn through connection, repetition, and steady, predictable responses. Telling a child to calm down does not work when their body does not feel safe.
When we change how we respond to behaviour, we change outcomes. Big feelings are communication. Connection comes before correction. Support builds regulation. Control builds fear.
This understanding can transform how parents, carers, teachers, and professionals support children with emotional and behavioural difficulties, trauma, sensory overwhelm, or ongoing stress.
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