Managing Tantrum Outbursts: Yelling, Kicking & All the Big Emotions

We get it—tantrums can feel overwhelming, especially when they escalate into yelling, screaming, kicking, crying, or even hitting. First, let us reassure you: this is all part of your child’s developmental journey. While these behaviors may test your patience, they’re often a sign that your little one is navigating emotions they don’t yet know how to handle.

We are here to help! Let’s dive into practical strategies to help you stay calm and guide your child through these challenging moments.

Why Do Tantrums Happen?

Tantrums often stem from:

• 😤 Frustration: They’re trying to do something they can’t yet master.

• 🍎 Basic Needs: Hunger, tiredness, or overstimulation.

• ❌ Limits: They don’t like being told “no.”

• 💬 Communication Gaps: They can’t yet express what they want or feel.

The kicking, yelling, and even hitting are their way of saying, “I’m overwhelmed!”

How to Respond to Tantrum Behaviors

• Stay Calm (Even When It’s Hard!) - Your child is looking to you for how to handle emotions. Breathe deeply and speak in a calm, steady tone.

• Acknowledge and Name the Behavior - Let your child know you understand their feelings but set clear boundaries: "I see you’re upset because we’re leaving the park. It’s okay to feel angry, but hitting is not okay."

• Use Gentle Physical Intervention (If Needed) - If your child is kicking or hitting, calmly move them to a safe space: “I’m moving you over here so no one gets hurt.”

• Redirect the Energy - Channel the outburst into something safe: “You’re feeling angry—let’s stomp our feet together!” “Do you want to squeeze this pillow really hard?”

• Stay Consistent: Repeating boundaries and following through helps your child learn: “You’re upset, but it’s never okay to hit. Let’s use words instead.”

Handling Specific Behaviors

• Yelling/Screaming: Lower your own voice to show calmness. Try: “Let’s take a deep breath together so we can talk.”

• Kicking/Hitting: Gently block the action and say, “We don’t hurt others. Let’s use gentle hands.”

• Crying: Comfort them by saying, “It’s okay to cry. I’m here for you.”

• Throwing Things: Remove dangerous items and say, “Throwing is not safe. Let’s put this away.”

What to Do After the Tantrum

• 🤝 Reconnect and Reassure: When the tantrum is over, give them a hug or sit close. Let them know they’re still loved: “You were really upset, but I’m proud of you for calming down. I love you no matter what.”

• 📚 Teach Them Coping Skills: When calm, talk about how they can handle feelings next time: “Instead of hitting, let’s use our words to say, ‘I need help!’” Introduce coping tools like counting to 10, squeezing a stress ball, or taking deep breaths.

• 💡 Identify Triggers: Keep track of what causes tantrums (hunger, transitions, overstimulation) so you can address these triggers ahead of time.

Partnering With You

At Laugh N Discover, we incorporate emotional regulation into our daily routines. Through modeling, redirection, and social-emotional activities, we help children learn better ways to express themselves.

If tantrums are a big concern, let’s chat! We’re here to offer resources, tips, and encouragement to support you and your child.

You’re Doing Great!

Tantrums are tough, but they’re also an opportunity for growth. With patience, consistency, and support, your child will learn how to manage those big feelings in a healthier way—and you’ll grow as a parent, too.

We’re in this together!

Warmly,

The Laugh N Discover Team