Ideas to help your toddler recognise when it’s all getting too much

What to try 

• You may start to notice patterns of behaviour emerging and so be able to tell when things are about to bubble over.  
• If you can see the signs that your toddler is beginning to get overwhelmed, carefully approach them and talk through what is happening. 
•  Say something like, “I can see that you’re getting a little red in the face. I think you would like your brother’s toy, and he is busy with it now.”  
• Talk with your toddler about the feelings they may have inside their body, this will help them to recognise when they are feeling upset. 
• You might say, “When you start to feel hot and tingly inside, it means that you feel upset. This is fine, it’s good to understand how you feel. Next time you feel like this, maybe you could try asking me for some help.”  
• It will take time to establish what works best for your toddler and you may experience lots more frustrations, but your toddler will start to connect their feelings and emotions with strategies once they understand what to do. 

Good to know 

Being able to understand and regulate emotions is a lifelong skill, and one that takes time to master. Your toddler will need plenty of experience and support to help them manage their emotions. They will rely on your empathy and understanding to help guide them through and become calm.