Talking to your child after a tantrum or meltdown can help you find out what caused the outburst. But timing is crucial. Try to talk too soon, and you may rev up big emotions. Wait too long, and your child may lose track of key details that can help you figure out what triggered the outburst.

In this 6-minute episode of What Now? A Parent’s Guide, psychologist Dr. Andrew Kahn teaches you how to know when your child is ready to talk and how to start the conversation. Get expert tips including the best open-ended questions to ask after your child has a tantrum or meltdown.

For more resources, visit the episode page on Understood.  way.

Related resources

• Download: Feelings wheel

Timestamps

(00:41) Why timing is really important  
(02:16) How to know when your child is ready to talk  
(03:44) How to start the conversation  
(04:55) What you can practice ahead of time  

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