Kids are at their best at school. They listen, follow rules, walk in a line, ask to use the bathroom, read, write and speak when they’re told. Following these rules and procedures takes massive amounts of emotional energy in little kids. When they finally arrive at their safe space, home, they get to unload all of their pent up stress. And as their loving parent, you are at the receiving end. So if you’d like to help you, and your child, with after school meltdowns, keep reading!
Your child isn’t trying to unload all of his/her tension on you. Your child has just endured hours of stressors and not had your support all day. When he’s back at home, he can finally unload those burdens in his safe space. He/she is not seeking attention or being manipulative. He/she is physically and emotionally exhausted.
After a long day, aren’t you tired and hungry? Wouldn’t it be nice to simply flop on the couch and not be met with even 1 more question or demand? While we aren’t as lucky, there are a few ways you can help ease your child into after school mode without meltdowns.
Help Your Child with After School Meltdowns
1. Quiet, Not Questions
It’s natural to want to know how your child’s day was at school. Many parents instantly start asking about school. However, questions may make your child shut down more. Instead of feeling like lighthearted conversation, questioning your child after school may feel more like an investigation.
When you first see your child after school, instead of asking a question, say something simple like “I missed you today. I’m happy you’re home”. Your child may not add anything, and that’s okay.
2. Food
After school is a tricky time before dinner. But whether you eat early or late, your child is more than likely hungry. Be sure to have snacks at the ready when he/she gets home from school. Fighting off hunger is the easiest way to help keep meltdowns to a minimum.
3. Down Time
After school activities start early for so many kids. But your child may benefit from less scheduling. Try not making plans. Instead, engage in activities that relax your child – – read a book, ride a bike, color, play outside. The goal is to decrease the stress that has been building in your child all day.
4. Help Your Child with After School Meltdowns Before School
One way to help your child after school is to be present and attentive before school. If at all possible, take some time in the morning, 10 or 15 minutes, to sit down with your child and relax with them. Hold them, read a book, play a game. Be together in the morning so your child can start his/her day with your positive energy and support.
School is a stressful place for kids. Meltdowns will happen and that’s okay. Give your child what he/she needs to process those emotions and regulate his/her behavior.
Therapy for Kids in Canonsburg, PA
If you are worried about your child’s behavior, or if you would like to get to know us a little better, please call us at (724) 503-6670 or email us at admin@inthenowcounseling.org for help.
