Does everyone doubt their ability to handle their child's meltdowns calmly?

Many parents experience moments of intense frustration and self-doubt when their child has a meltdown. It's a common human reaction to feel overwhelmed by the strong emotions involved, both your child's and your own. The pressure to always react perfectly can be immense, but the reality of parenting often involves moments of struggle and imperfection.

A 2019 study published in the Journal of Family Psychology found that over 80% of parents report feeling stressed or overwhelmed by their child's behavior at least once a week.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I get so frustrated when my child has a meltdown?
Frustration often stems from feeling a loss of control, exhaustion, or simply not knowing how to effectively calm your child and yourself in the moment. It's a natural reaction to a challenging situation.
What are common reasons children have meltdowns?
Children often have meltdowns due to being tired, hungry, overstimulated, or struggling to express big emotions. Sometimes, it's simply a developmental stage where their emotional regulation skills are still developing.
How can I stay calmer during my child's tantrum?
Taking a deep breath, stepping away for a moment if it's safe, and remembering that the tantrum will pass can help. Focusing on your child's underlying need rather than just the behavior can also shift your perspective.

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