Big feelings are a normal part of early childhood. Children are still learning how to wait, manage frustration, recover from disappointment, and communicate what they need. When emotions become overwhelming, behavior is often a child’s way of communicating.
In these moments, long explanations are rarely helpful. Children need calm, clear support that helps their bodies settle before they are asked to solve a problem. A simple three-step response can help:
Name: Describe what you observe without judgment. “Your body looks upset.”
Breathe: Offer a short calming cue. “Smell the flower. Blow the candle.” Repeat for two slow breaths.
Next step: Offer two acceptable choices. “You can sit with me or go to the calm space.”
Short, consistent language helps children know what to expect. It also gives the adults in the room a shared approach during stressful moments. Rather than trying a different response each time, choose one script and use it consistently.
Teachers can also look for patterns. Does a child struggle most during cleanup, while waiting or during group time? Focusing on one recurring moment makes it easier to select a useful strategy and notice progress over time.
A Show Me Child Care Resources membership gives educators access to organized behavior supports, visuals, routines, and scripts, making it easier to quickly find help for common classroom challenges.
Take action: Join or activate your Show Me Child Care Resources membership, choose one behavior-support strategy, and introduce it to your teaching team before the next challenging moment.
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