Jan 11, 2025

10 ways to calm down your child in a minute

Teesha Shirodkar

​Helping your child find peace

Do you ever find yourself in a whirlwind of emotions with your child? These are simple and effective habits that will, with time help your little one calm down in just a minute. As per Nicoleen Peck’s YouTube video, you can turn chaos into calmness, creating a peaceful environment for both of you. Whether it’s a tantrum or just a tough day, these quick ways will help you.

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​Understand and teach self-government

Teach your child the principle of self-government, which involves recognising their feelings and behaviours. For example, explain that feeling frustrated is normal, but they can choose how to respond.

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​Stay calm, don’t react

Maintain composure and avoid taking your child's negative behaviour personally. If they are upset, calmly acknowledge their feelings without escalating the situation, such as saying, "I see you’re frustrated, let’s take a deep breath together."

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​Pre-teach responses

Prepare your child for potential situations by discussing how to respond beforehand. For instance, role-play what to do if they don’t get their way, reinforcing that it's okay to feel disappointed.

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​Role play situations together

Practice various scenarios with your child so they know what to expect during stressful moments. For example, act in a situation where they must wait for their turn and guide them on how to express their impatience calmly.

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​Create a calm down plan

Establish a specific place for your child to go when they need to calm down, like a designated ‘calm corner’ with soothing items. Explain that this space is for regaining composure and not as a punishment.

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​Describe instead of reacting

When addressing behaviour, focus on describing the situation rather than reacting emotionally. You can say, “I noticed you’re shouting,et’s talk about what’s bothering you,” which helps them feel understood.

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Use rationale statements

After calming down, explain why certain behaviours are unacceptable using relatable reasons. Make your child understand say, “We don’t hit because it hurts others; let’s find a better way to express our anger.”

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​Remind and practice correct behaviour

Reinforce what appropriate behaviour looks like by reminding them of past lessons and practicing these behaviours together. If they struggle with sharing with other kids, remind them gently that they must share toys so friends come over to play.

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​Implement consistent consequences

Implement clear and consistent consequences for behaviours to help your child understand boundaries. For example, if they refuse to follow instructions, they might have to do an extra chore as a consequence, this might look like a punishment at start but strictness is always important at times.

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​Utilise the rule of three

If your child escalates beyond control, apply the ‘rule of three’ by offering three choices or consequences in a calm manner. This could involve giving them options like taking deep breaths or choosing a calming activity instead of reacting negatively and regain composure.

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Thanks For Reading!

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