Helping Children Handle Frustration, Negativity and Meltdowns

When facing frustration, disappointment, or a limit, it is common for children to feel upset and attempt to change caregivers' minds. Often this frustration leads to meltdowns and tantrums or just chronic negativity or whininess. Some children may get stuck in these difficult emotions and this can lead to a host of perplexing and concerning behaviours. Understanding the roots of frustration and aggression is the key to being effective in dealing with these intense emotions and the challenging behaviours that can result. It is also the key to cultivating resilience in our children throughout their lives. As they age, they will need to be prepared for greater disappointment, losses, and hardships in their lives. How do they find the resilience to face life’s challenges?

Living Inquiries:

• Well-being and belonging

• Engagement with others, materials, and the world

• Communication and literacies

Pathways: