3 Ways Parents Can Help Regulate Their Child

When your child is overwhelmed, whether it’s from anxiety, ADHD, school stress, or big emotions like anger, it can feel like the whole family is on edge.

You try your best, but some days it feels like nothing works, and you’re left wondering, “Is something wrong with my child?” or “Am I missing something?”

You’re not alone. Many children today are struggling to regulate their emotions, and it’s not because they’re defiant or broken. It’s because they haven’t yet learned the tools to process and manage what’s going on inside.

I’m Lauren Hedman, a child and adolescent therapist at Kid Matters Counseling. Today, I want to give you three simple ways you can help your child regulate their emotions, starting right now.

Tip 1: Name the Emotion

When kids act out, what they’re really doing is communicating. But they often don’t have the words. The first step? Help them name what they’re feeling.

Instead of asking “What’s wrong with you?”, try saying, “I see that you’re feeling angry. That’s okay. We’ll work through this together.” Naming the emotion helps your child feel seen, and it begins to activate the thinking part of the brain.

Tip 2: Breathe Together

It sounds simple, but deep breathing really works. When your child is dysregulated, invite them to breathe with you.

Try playful strategies like pretending to blow bubbles or smelling a favorite treat. Regulating your own breath in that moment models self-control and teaches them how to slow down, too.

Tip 3: Create a Calm-Down Space

Kids need a safe place where it’s okay to feel big feelings. Set up a cozy corner with a few sensory tools like a stuffed animal, a fidget toy, or a weighted blanket.

This isn’t a punishment zone, it’s a regulation zone. You’re helping them reset, not retreat.

These steps won’t fix everything overnight, but they do begin to build trust, emotional safety, and connection. And when that foundation is strong, real healing and growth can begin.

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure how to move forward, schedule an appointment today. I’d love to help. 

Let’s work together to give your child the tools they need and the peace you both deserve.