Helping Kids Navigate Big Feelings
If you’ve ever watched your child melt down over something that seems small, like the wrong color cup, a game not going their way, or having to stop playing Roblox, you know how overwhelming those “big feelings” can be. And let’s be honest: they can be just as overwhelming for you as a parent.
Kids don’t always have the words to explain what’s happening inside. Instead, anxiety might look like stomachaches, anger might come out as yelling or hitting, and sadness might show up as shutting down. When emotions get big, children often feel just as confused and frustrated as the adults trying to help them.
Here’s the thing: learning to manage feelings is a skill, just like tying your shoes or riding a bike. For some kids, especially those who are neurodivergent or living with ADHD, autism, or sensory differences, those feelings can feel even bigger, louder, and harder to handle. That doesn’t mean they’re “bad kids.” It means they need tools, patience, and safe spaces to practice how to cope.
And it’s not just about the child. Parents often feel guilty or wonder if they’re doing something wrong when their child struggles with emotions. But big feelings aren’t a sign of “bad parenting.” They’re a sign that your child is still learning how to handle all the ups and downs of being human, and that’s something every kid needs help with.
Practical Ways to Support Kids with Big Emotions
Name the feeling. Saying “I can see you’re really frustrated” helps kids feel understood and teaches them to put words to their emotions.
Model calm. Easier said than done, I know. But when you take a breath (instead of yelling back), you show your child what calming down can look like.
Create a calm-down space. A cozy corner with a favorite stuffed animal, headphones, or drawing supplies can give kids a safe place to reset.
Use play and creativity. Games, art, or even Minecraft-inspired activities can help kids express feelings in ways that feel natural and fun.
Celebrate small wins. When your child pauses before reacting or finds a healthy way to let feelings out, cheer them on; it builds confidence and resilience.
Finding Calm in the Chaos
Big emotions are part of growing up, but they don’t have to take over family life. With patience, practice, and the right tools, kids can learn how to manage anger, express sadness in healthy ways, and build coping skills that will carry them into adulthood. And as a parent, it helps to remember that you’re not alone in this; so many families are navigating the same stormy seas.
When kids learn to handle their feelings in a safe, supportive environment, something shifts: they start to feel more confident in themselves, less afraid of their emotions, and more connected to the people around them. That’s the beauty of helping kids through the waves, one calm moment at a time; they discover their own light.