Meltdowns don't come out of nowhere. Look for early signs like pacing, covering ears, repetitive movements, or sudden silence. These cues tell you your child may be overwhelmed — by noise, lights, change in routine, or emotional overload. The sooner you notice, the sooner you can help.
Recognize the Signs of Overstimulation
Designate a quiet, sensory-friendly corner where your child feels safe. It can have soft pillows, calming toys, weighted blankets, or noise-canceling headphones. Let them know it's okay to step away and reset — this is a space for peace, not punishment.
Create a Calm-Down Space
Stay calm yourself — your energy matters. Speak in a soft, slow tone and use short, clear phrases like “You’re safe” or “I’m here.” Try calming techniques like deep breathing, gentle squeezes, or fidget toys. What works will depend on your child — experiment and observe.
Use Simple, Reassuring Strategies
Once your child is calm, talk gently about what happened. Help them name the feeling and identify what triggered it. Over time, this builds emotional awareness and trust. Remember: calming down is a skill, and like all skills, it gets stronger with your support.
Reflect After the Storm Passes