My Child is Angry. What Should I Do?

My Child is Angry. What Should I Do?

As parents, understanding and recognizing big feelings in children is crucial for their emotional development and well-being. Children, especially those between the ages of 8-12, experience a wide range of intense emotions, from joy and excitement to anger and sadness. At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers’ ROWI KIDS programs, we emphasize the importance of acknowledging these feelings and providing children with the tools to manage them effectively.

Understanding Big Feelings

Big feelings are intense emotions that can sometimes overwhelm children. These emotions might include:

  • Anger: A powerful emotion often expressed through yelling, crying, or aggressive behavior.
  • Sadness: This can manifest as crying, withdrawal, or a lack of interest in usual activities.
  • Fear: Children might experience fear in response to new situations, changes, or specific triggers.
  • Excitement: Positive emotions can also be overwhelming, leading to hyperactivity or difficulty concentrating.
  • Anxiety: Manifesting as worry or fear about future events, often leading to physical symptoms like stomach aches or headaches.

Signs to Look For

Recognizing these big feelings involves observing both behavioral and physical signs:

  • Behavioral Changes: Sudden shifts in behavior, such as increased aggression, withdrawal from social interactions, or changes in sleep patterns.
  • Physical Symptoms: Headaches, stomach aches, or other physical complaints without a clear medical cause.
  • Emotional Outbursts: Frequent crying, tantrums, or meltdowns over seemingly minor issues.
  • Changes in School Performance: A drop in academic performance or reluctance to attend school.

Strategies for Parents

  1. Open Communication: Encourage your child to talk about their feelings. Create a safe and non-judgmental space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves.
  2. Active Listening: Pay close attention to what your child is saying. Show empathy and validate their emotions by acknowledging their feelings without dismissing them.
  3. Model Emotional Regulation: Demonstrate healthy ways to manage emotions. Children learn by observing, so showing how you handle your own big feelings can be a powerful lesson. This can include parents saying that they need a break to calm down during emotionally heated moments, going to a quiet place and gathering oneself before returning.
  4. Teach Coping Skills: Introduce techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and creative expression (like drawing or writing) to help your child manage their emotions.
  5. Create a Routine: A consistent daily routine can provide a sense of stability and security, helping to reduce anxiety and emotional outbursts.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many children can learn to manage their big feelings with parental support, some may need additional help. If your child’s emotional responses are impacting their daily life, school performance, or relationships, it may be time to seek professional assistance. ROWI offers a range of programs tailored to help children and families navigate these challenges.Learn more about ROWI KIDS programs.