What I may be saying is, “I am frustrated! I want to do this, but I am not able,” or “I don’t know how to communicate what I am feeling to you.” Sometimes I might tantrum when I am tired or hungry. You can support me by staying calm, staying close to me, and remembering I am just learning how to control my emotions. Help me by giving me words to validate what I am feeling: “You are having a hard time right now. You really wanted that, and you’re mad that you can’t have it. I know it is hard, but I am here for you.” Afterward, let me know how good I did calming down, reinforcing my developing skills of learning how to control my emotions. Remember, how you are feeling will affect how I am feeling. The calmer you are, the easier it will be for me to be calm.
