Welcome to the very first episode of From Tears to Talking, the podcast dedicated to parents and educators who want practical solutions for navigating meltdowns, emotional outbursts, and challenging behaviors. Hosted by Ashley Bell—elementary school counselor, curriculum designer, children's book author, and most importantly mom of two—you’ll learn actionable strategies to transform chaos into calm, connected moments with your kids.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why emotional outbursts happen—understand the science behind meltdowns and why traditional discipline often falls short.
• A 3-Step Method to handle meltdowns effectively:
  1. Regulate – Help your child calm down first with practical strategies.
  2. Connect – Use empathy and understanding to reconnect with your child.
  3. Talk it Out – Build emotional intelligence by reflecting and problem-solving together.
• A relatable story of Ashley’s own parenting moment—the infamous block tower meltdown—and how calm connection made all the difference.

Bring this week’s lesson to life with our Calm Down Toolbox craftivity! 

This fun, interactive activity helps your child identify and practice calming strategies in a tangible way.

🎨 Download your FREE printable Calm Down Toolbox Craftivity here

If you're a visual learner, check out the YouTube demo of this craftivity here --> (coming soon)

Expand Your Toolbox: For even more engaging activities and resources, check out the expanded Calm Down Toolbox in The Crafty Counselor store or TheCraftyCounselorMB Etsy shop.

If you like this craftivity and want to check out the full resource, you can click to find it in The Crafty Counselor Store, TpT, or Etsy. 

🎧 New episodes drop weekly.

Learn more at mrsbellthecraftycounselor.com or www.fromtearstotalking.com 

💛 Let’s go from chaos to connection—together.

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@fromtearstotalking  

Etsy: https://thecraftycounselormb.etsy.com 

Website: https://mrsbellthecraftycounselor.com/shop/ 

TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/mrs-bell-the-crafty-counselor

IG: https://www.instagram.com/mrsbellthecraftycounselor/ 

Want More? Subscribe and never miss an episode! And if today's strategies helped you, please share this episode with a friend or colleague.

🌟 Up Next: Episode 2 – "How to Set Boundaries Without Yelling." Learn practical tips for setting limits effectively without raising your voice or losing your cool.

Stay calm, stay connected, and remember—your presence is powerful. 

Are you ready to start the journey from tears to talking?