Free Printable · Big Feelings
Meltdown or Tantrum?
How to tell the difference in the moment — and why what helps one makes the other worse.
Free Printable · Big Feelings
How to tell the difference in the moment — and why what helps one makes the other worse.
A tantrum is goal-driven: it happens to get something, and it usually stops when the audience leaves or the answer changes. A meltdown is overload: the nervous system is flooded, there is no off switch, and it is not a choice your child is making.
The response that works for one backfires on the other — which is why so many well-meant strategies seem to fail. This one-pager gives you the quick tell and what actually helps in the moment.
Regulation is a skill that can be taught. If big feelings are running your house, a free consult is a no-pressure place to start.
Written by Lindsey Wood, MOT, OTR/L — pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Eat. Play. Love.
A printable is a great start. If something still feels off, a free consult is the fastest way to find out whether your child needs support — and we'll tell you honestly either way.
