Parents, has this ever happened that your child started crying and then just wouldn’t stop, no matter what measures you take? Many parents start feeling guilty, and question themselves, “Why is my child behaving this way?” However, this behavior does not always mean misbehavior. There are psychological reasons behind those emotions.
Why do children struggle to calm down sometimes
The ability to notice emotions, manage reactions, and return to a calmer state takes time in development. A child’s brain is still developing and so is their ability to handle emotions. The areas of the brain responsible for impulse control, problem-solving, and emotional regulation continue developing throughout childhood. This means a child may feel an emotion very strongly but may not yet have the skills to calm themselves down.
Why saying “calm down” does not work
During an emotional outbreak, a child won’t follow instructions. Similarly, when an adult says, “Calm down,” the child may hear the words, but they may not know how to calm themselves at that moment. For many children, “calm down” can also feel like their emotions are being dismissed. They may think “My feelings are not important” or “Nobody understands me.” A more helpful approach is to first help the child feel safe and understood.Some activities can help children manage big emotions. Such activities are not meant to stop emotions. Instead, they help children calm their bodies so they can handle emotions better. Here are seven activities that can help children manage big emotions
Jumping on a trampoline
Jumping provides strong movement input and can help children release physical tension. Rhythmic movement may support body awareness and help some children feel more organized.Try: “Let’s do 20 jumps together, then check how your body feels.”
Climbing or obstacle courses
Climbing, crawling, balancing activities, or jumping activities allow children to focus and coordinate their bodies. These activities can help children understand balance.
Swimming or water play
Water activities can have a calming effect for many children. The pressure of water, repetitive movements, and slow pace can support relaxation.Ideas: gentle swimming, washing toys, pouring water between cups, playing with water toys.
Blowing bubbles
Bubble blowing naturally encourages slow breathing, which can activate the body’s relaxation response. Children practice longer exhales without feeling like they are doing a breathing exercise.Try: “Let’s make the biggest bubble by breathing slowly.”
Animal walks
Animal movements combine imagination with physical activity, and can help children notice their bodies and shift attention away from overwhelming feelings.Examples: Bear crawl, crab walk, frog jumps, penguin walk
Dancing
Music along with movement helps express emotions physically. When children dance they release energy in a physical form, and thus feel regulated and calm.
Playing with clay
Hands-on activities can help children focus and release tension. Playing with clay, playdough or kinetic sand can help children calm their emotions.
