What is the best way to respond when I feel emotionally triggered by my child’s behaviour?

Experiences from the past, not merely the present, are frequently the source of emotional reactions. Take a break when your child’s behaviour becomes too much to handle. Breathe deeply and allow yourself some time to gather your thoughts. Before answering, you could subtly state, ‘I need a moment to calm down.’ In addition to modelling emotional regulation for your child in real time, this establishes a buffer between feeling and reacting. After the time is over, ask yourself, ‘What caused that specific behaviour to have such a profound impact on me?’ Unknowingly, children’s behaviour might occasionally cause our own emotional scars to reopen. Consider it an opportunity to improve rather than a time to respond violently. If you make a mistake, accept it politely. In addition to teaching your child that emotional safety involves mutual development, this reassurance aids in restoring trust.