How to Handle BIG EMOTIONS in Little Kids

We’ve all dealt with meltdowns/tantrums/hissy fits with our littles. Big emotions in young children are typically over exaggerated responses, but frustrating for parents. Use these ten proactive tactics to help your child cope.

Top Ten Tips to Handle BIG EMOTIONS in Little Kids

1. Break skills into smaller chunks to allow for success.
2. Have realistic expectations according to your child’s age and developmental stage.
3. Practice identifying emotions, determining needs, and solving problems.
4. Give more control to your child when and where appropriate
5. Use “Yes, when…”as opposed to “No, not until…”
6. Be part of the solution, offering to help rather than just stepping in to fix the problem.
7. Refrain from being hijacked by the child’s emotions or behavior.
8. Be the parent, don’t give in as the big emotion will be worse the next time if not dealt with.
9. If the behavior works, the child will continue to use it. (Example: whining)
10. Give child control. Assist with coping strategies such as holding own hands, self-hug, deep breathing techniques, and so on.

© 2019 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.

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