509: Tantrums, Tears, and Temperaments

If you’re in the stage of parenting where tears, tantrums, and big emotions seem to take over every day, you’re not alone. Today Karen and Emily are tackling questions from moms navigating the emotional ups and downs of preschoolers and early elementary kids. They discuss why some kids cry more than others, how to handle tantrums without giving in, and how to guide sensitive kids through big feelings. If you’re in the thick of it these days, we hope this episode reminds you that this stage is normal and it won’t last forever!

Episode Recap:

• All of our kids go through hard phases, you are not alone (1:08)
• My 5 year old boy cries about EVERYTHING - help! (3:05)
• My son’s temper tantrums are out of control, what can I do? (7:08)
• My 4 yr old is very dependent on her brother, I’m worried about her clinginess (9:11)
• How do I approach the “stranger danger” conversation with my outgoing girl? (12:39)
• You’re not going to change the way your kid is wired, but you can understand it (20:00) 

Scripture: Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) 
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Discussion Questions: 

1. How do you usually respond when your child cries or throws a tantrum? How’s that working for your family? 
2. Karen talked about helping kids learn that not every situation is a “10 out of 10.” How do you teach your children perspective when they’re upset?
3. What are some practical ways you can help your child learn to express feelings with words instead of tears?
4. How does remembering that this stage is temporary change the way you respond in the moment?

Resources:

• Listen to the rest of our conversation on WT+: boaw.mom/insider
• Send us your questions through the BOAW Moms app [Apple] [Google Play]
• Check out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the Bible

Want More?

Wire Talk+ listeners get extended conversations every week. Today Karen and Emily are sharing tips for how to make mornings easier with reluctant risers.

Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.