The Meltdown Toolkit: What to Do Before, During and After Big Emotions

Description

Tantrum or meltdown? They look alike, but they need different responses. This toolkit helps you tell the difference, stay steady in the moment, and build a clear plan instead of guessing every time.

WHAT’S INSIDE (23 printable pages)
• Start here: a quick path for when you’re in the middle of it right now
• Why it’s happening: the four “jobs” behavior does, and what’s typical at your child’s age
• The 30-second pause: a printable wallet card to help you stay steady
• Your parenting values check
• Behavior detective tracker to spot patterns
• Warning signs and triggers worksheet (yours and your child’s)
• Prevention strategies and your own prevention plan
• Do · Say · Skip: a one-page guide for the hard moment
• Script cards with exactly what to say: at home, at the store, in the car, leaving somewhere fun, and more
• If this, then that: a quick decision guide
• The repair script, with sample words by age
• “After a big feeling”: a page to read together with your child
• Teach the swap: what to teach instead, plus cut-out cards
• 2-week tracker and wins log
• Caregiver consistency plan to share with co-parents, grandparents, sitters and teachers
• When to get more help

WHO IT’S FOR
Parents, grandparents and caregivers of children ages 2–8 who are having frequent tantrums or meltdowns.

HOW IT WORKS
Short on time? Print 3 pages, put them on the fridge, and start today. Want the full plan? Work through one section every day or two over 2 weeks.

Grounded in behavior science and values-based parenting. Written by Michelle Szydlowski, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst who has worked with children and families since 2007.

DETAILS
• Instant digital download: printable PDF, US Letter size (8.5 x 11 in)
• No physical item will be shipped
• Licensed for personal use within your own family

PLEASE NOTE
This toolkit is for educational purposes only. It is not medical, psychological or behavioral advice and is not a substitute for support from a professional who knows your child.