10/01/2026
When a child is dysregulated, logic won’t land — connection will.
A hug isn’t about stopping the feeling or fixing the behaviour. It’s about helping a child’s nervous system feel safe enough to settle. In those moments, their body is asking for reassurance, grounding and calm before words ever matter.
A hug can slow breathing, lower stress hormones, ease anxiety and remind a child they’re not alone — even when emotions feel overwhelming. It’s one of the simplest, most powerful tools for co-regulation.
Not every child wants touch, and consent always matters — but when it’s welcome, a hug can be the bridge back to safety.
Managing big feelings isn’t about control. It’s about connection.
If you want practical, brain-based tools to support children through emotional overwhelm, our Managing Big Feelings toolkit is available — link in comments below ⬇️ or via Linktree Shop in Bio.
