How do you handle after-school meltdowns?

How to handle after-school meltdowns?

Many parents find that their children struggle to settle down when they come home from school. These meltdowns can be challenging to handle, but fortunately, there are ways to help children regulate their nervous system and find inner peace. An effective approach is to focus on activities that engage the primary senses, especially through proprioceptive play and the use of a sensory swing.

Primary senses and their role in regulation

Our primary senses, which include proprioception (the muscle and joint sense), the vestibular system (balance and spatial orientation), and the tactile sense (touch), play a crucial role in how we perceive ourselves and our surroundings. These senses help us to feel "grounded" and find calm, which can be particularly important for children who have had a challenging day at school.

Proprioception, or the muscle and joint sense, helps us to feel our body in space. When children engage in activities that stimulate this sense, it can have a down-regulating effect on their nervous system. This means that they can find calm and balance, reducing the risk of meltdowns.

Proprioceptive play at home

1. Deep pressure and hugs: Activities like giving your child a deep hug, or letting them roll themselves into a blanket like a "burrito," can have a calming effect. These deep pressures send signals to the brain that help the child feel safe and relaxed.

2. Pushing and pulling games: Pushing a heavy pillow, pulling a rope, or participating in a game like "push-ups" can give the child the proprioceptive input they need. These activities engage the muscles and give the child a sense of strength and control, which can be calming.

3. Use of a sensory swing: A sensory swing, which allows the child to swing back and forth, can be extremely effective. The movements of the swing stimulate the vestibular system, which can have an organizing effect on the child's nervous system. This can help the child find a sense of inner calm and balance.

How to meet your child after school

When children come home after a long day, it is important to meet them with understanding and care. Here are three good tips:

1. Allow for quiet time: After a hectic day at school, quiet can be golden. Let your child have time to land and compose themselves without being bombarded with questions or tasks.

2. Offer a calming activity: Give your child the opportunity to choose a calming activity, such as sitting in the sensory swing, drawing, or playing with modeling clay. This can help to down-regulate the nervous system and prepare the child for the rest of the day.

3. Be present: Make sure to be present and available. Sometimes children need physical closeness, a hug, or just to sit next to you on the couch. Your presence can give them the security they need.

Understanding and supporting your child in managing after-school meltdowns can be challenging, but with the right tools, you can create a calm and safe atmosphere where your child can thrive and feel comfortable.