Kids struggling with tough emotions can be better managed with a little more understanding
Managing intense emotions in young children, especially when they manifest as anger or frustration, can be challenging for any parent. Parents and educators need practical strategies for handling these situations effectively, supporting emotional growth and fostering positive behaviours.
Emotional regulation is a skill children can learn from an early age. By teaching children ways to understand and manage their feelings, they become equipped with tools for life, allowing them to navigate their emotions with resilience and empathy.
One of the key principles behind managing intense emotions in children is validation. When a child has a meltdown or displays aggressive behaviour, the initial step is acknowledging their feelings rather than jumping straight into discipline. Simple affirmations like ‘I can see you’re upset’ help children feel understood and can reduce the intensity of their emotions.
Grounding techniques are also highly effective. For instance, the ‘Five Senses Activity’ encourages children to identify something they can see, hear, touch, smell and taste. This practice helps shift their focus from overwhelming emotions to the present moment, providing an immediate calming effect.
Calm communication
Observing patterns and identifying triggers that lead to emotional outbursts is another valuable approach. If a child becomes irritable when hungry, it’s best to avoid challenging conversations or activities during that time, for instance. This approach not only helps parents manage child aggression but also teaches children the importance of self-awareness.
Parents are encouraged to discuss emotions with their children during calm moments, helping them recognise the physical and mental signs of intense emotions. By teaching children to notice when their body feels tense or when specific thoughts accompany frustration, parents empower them to use self-regulation techniques. Deep breathing, counting or taking a momentary break are all strategies that can prevent emotions from escalating.
Children learn so much by watching their parents. When parents model healthy emotional regulation, they demonstrate that it’s okay to feel strong emotions and that there are positive ways to handle them. These shared practices turn self-regulation into a bonding experience and a valuable learning opportunity.
Through using these strategies, parents and educators can manage child aggression more effectively. These early lessons in emotional regulation lay the foundation for resilient, well-rounded individuals.
Text | Ursula Assis
Photography | mr. teerapon tiuekhom
Ursula Assis is Country Director of Dibber International Preschools.
For more information, go to dibber.co.za.
