How to handle your kids hitting and kicking during a meltdown

The Happy Human Life

"My child will punch and kick during a meltdown and it feels like I can't give them any support. What can I do to help them when they get this way?"

In this episode, we talk about CALMY RIDING THE WAVE.

When your kid is in meltdown mode and throwing punches and kicks, we need to do our best to maintain our cool at all costs.

It’s not just about keeping everyone safe, but also about modeling calm behavior. It may help to say a mantra like, “We’re going to get through this. They’re just having a hard time.”

We need to remember that our kids look to us for cues on how to handle their BIG emotions. If we can model regulation, it’s almost as if we lend them our calm through co-regulation.

It can take time, so try not to rush the process. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in their storm, but we know that reacting strongly will just escalate the situation.

While giving them space, we recommend staying close by and offering support. Even though it may not feel that way, your presence is reassuring and will help them move through their feelings.

You may want to try opening your arms for a hug to show them that you’re there for them and aren’t afraid of their big emotions. This can be a SUCH powerful way to let them know that you’re there to support them… no matter what.

It’s not always easy, but let’s do our best to CALMY RIDE THE WAVE. All waves come down eventually. They just need time.

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Thanks for listening. 🙂

-Jenilee and Greg