PW invited parents from Sir Padampat Singhania Education Centre, Kanpur to share their insights on how they cope with their children’s emotional outbursts

“Over time, I have come to understand that maintaining calm is the most effective response at our disposal. Rather than rushing to correct or reason,with my son Advay (class IV), I focus on being present. I offer a calm, steady space and let the storm run its course. Once the intensity subsides and calm returns, we talk. This post-tantrum moment, when emotions have settled, becomes a real opportunity for growth. A principle I hold dear is this: connect before you correct. When children feel safe emotionally, they become open to guidance and learning. Discipline is not about perfection — it’s about presence. Each meltdown is not a failure, but a chance to build trust and teach resilience” — Priyanka Mishra, entrepreneur

“Remaining calm, acknowledging emotions with empathy, setting gentle yet clear boundaries, and using creative redirection to guide focus has helped me cope with the emotional outbursts of my daughter.Aradhya (class V). With patience and consistency, these instances soon become meaningful learning experiences that cultivate emotional growth and self-regulation. I acknowledge her feelings. by saying: “I understand you’re upset” which helps her feel heard and understood. I believe children should know what is and what is not acceptable behaviour. Helping children manage their own emotions by practising calming techniques such as deep breathing or counting is useful” — Ekta Chaddha, homemaker

“Managing the tantrums of my daughter Jaesmira (class IV) has demanded patience, empathy, and thoughtful guidance, requiring deep insight into her emotional landscape and commitment to guide her with consistency, warmth, and understanding. The most important response is to remain composed. When I remain calm, it helps ease the prevailing stress. Offering gentle reassurance without yielding to unreasonable demands helps strike a balance between compassion and boundary-setting. For younger children, redirecting their attention can often dissolve a brewing meltdown. Once calm is restored, I revisit the incident, and discuss constructive ways to express difficult emotions” — Pragya Raj Chawla, homemaker

“Today’s Gen Alpha children including my son Vatsal (class V) are very tech-savvy, independent, and visually oriented due to early exposure to digital platforms. Engaging with him requires cognitive insight, patience, and understanding of his environment. Children’s affinity for technology can be constructively channelled by integrating calming activities like storytelling, sensory play, and music. Creating tech-free, calm spaces also helps ease distraction and promotes emotional regulation. Open and honest communication, often through real-life stories also works well. Simple practices such as deep breathing, short exercises, and yoga are also effective in improving focus and calm” — Shubhra Jain, homemaker

Also Read: Ensuring children socialise with others