Empathy is one of the best approaches parents can use to help their kids when they struggle emotionally. Providing empathy maintains parental authority without giving up or giving in. At the same time, it strengthens relationships between kids and their parents, and kids learn essential emotional regulation skills.

All kids have anger outbursts at some point. If you find yourself frustrated by these outbursts or helpless in creating positive change, you might need to consider a different strategy. Sometimes the best course of action when your child is upset is to give them some time and space to calm down. This article addresses strategies for supporting your child to calm themselves down during anger outbursts, without your immediate intervention, which can make the situation worse.