"Let's talk about meltdowns and temper tantrums. Arms flailing, feet stomping, the full body drop-to-the-ground moment. For toddlers, the image is all too familiar. For those of us who have older children, we take a sigh. But are tantrums just for toddlers? No, they aren't. The tantrum meltdown isn't just for kids. It's also an experience many teens, young adults, and adults experience on the regular. They just look a little different now. Let me explain."
"If you have a child in elementary, middle, or even high school, you're still seeing meltdowns. They've upgraded from floor-kicking to eye-rolling, door-closing, and "I can't even" vibes. But the root cause? Pretty much the same. At any age, meltdowns happen when our goals or intentions get blocked, and we can't find the words to explain what we want or what feels wrong. And honestly? Adults do this, too. Sure, we might not flop on the floor, but mentally, we are thrashing."
Meltdowns and temper tantrums occur across ages, from toddlers to teens and adults, though outward expressions change with age. Meltdowns arise when goals or intentions are blocked and words to express needs or distress are lacking. Elementary-aged children can be redirected by adults who connect first and fix later. Adults should avoid matching the child's tone and instead see-saw emotional intensity by responding quietly, slowly, and kindly. Stopping activity, kneeling to the child's level, making gentle physical contact, and naming the child's emotions support connection and regulation. These approaches signal safety and prevent escalation.
Read at Psychology Today
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