10/17/2025
When a child has a meltdown, the emotional amygdala takes over, putting them in "fight or flight." They are physically incapable of rational thought.
Criticism and control escalate this distress by registering as a threat, making the child feel less safe and prolonging the outburst.
Your calm presence and comfort signal safety, helping their nervous system settle down through co-regulation. The child needs your calm to find their own.