Episode 111: When Meltdowns Rule the Day: What’s Really Going On and How to Help

In this episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, we dive deep into one of the most overwhelming and confusing challenges parents face: meltdowns. If your child goes from calm to explosive over small things, can’t be reasoned with in the heat of the moment, or leaves the whole family feeling like they’re walking on eggshells—you’re not alone, and you’re not a bad parent.

Together, we explore:

• The key difference between tantrums and meltdowns

• Why meltdowns happen (and what they’re really communicating)

• Common triggers like transitions, unexpected changes, sensory overwhelm, fatigue, hunger, and difficult demands

• What not to do during a meltdown (and why reasoning or escalating doesn’t work)

• What to do instead—including staying calm, reducing demands, creating safety, and helping your child regulate

• How to reconnect and reflect after the storm so your child learns and builds coping skills

You’ll also hear practical strategies, from using the “cup of capacity” analogy to building a calming plan or kit, that can help prevent meltdowns or make them easier to navigate when they do happen.

This episode will leave you feeling reassured, better equipped, and more compassionate—both toward your child and yourself. Remember, meltdowns aren’t a sign of failure. They’re signals. And with the right tools and mindset, you can respond in ways that truly support your child’s emotional needs.

If you’re ready to go deeper, check out the Chaos to Calm program, where we work alongside parents to create personalized strategies for understanding and managing meltdowns.

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