Going back to school after the holiday break is hard for kids.
But you know what’s harder? Going back to school after lockdown.
Emotions are running high on every side, and the moment kids are back home from school, they are likely to let all their emotions out.
On you…
And maybe you’ve heard this is actually a compliment because it means they trust you and feel safe enough to have that emotional outburst knowing you will not stop loving them.
But I know that at that moment, it doesn’t feel like it.
So how do you get through them?
In breathwork, there is a saying: “If you resist, it will persist.”
I believe something similar applies to meltdowns/tantrums/emotional outbursts.
If all you are thinking at that moment is: “OMG, please let this be over soon,”… it is likely to take longer.
Instead, here is my suggestion:
Allow space for the emotional outburst and become an observer instead of a participant to it.
When you become an observer, you can emotionally detach yourself from the result.
As long as they are not hurting themselves, they can be angry, shout, cry or be silent.
Sit with them through it. Observe it without judgment and be willing to offer a hug if they need it.
Remember, it has nothing to do with you. They are processing emotions.
Then talk about it when they are calmer. Label the emotion, ask what they were feeling.
For example, you seem, angry sweetheart. How does that feel in your body? Does your belly or head hurt?
This type of communication is key to help them become aware of how they are feeling and why.
And really, this is why I encourage learning meditation. It gives children core skills to learn emotional regulation.
