What should I do when my child has an outburst in public? 

Parenting Perspective 

Understanding the Outburst 

When your child has an outburst in public; screaming, kicking, crying, it can feel overwhelming and even humiliating, especially when strangers stare or make unhelpful comments. Try to remind yourself that your child is not being naughty. They are overwhelmed and have lost control of their feelings in a place that feels too big or unsafe in that moment. 

Your Immediate Response: Stay Calm 

Focus first on staying calm yourself. Take a deep breath, get down to your child’s level if you can and use simple, steady words like, ‘You are safe. I am here.’ If possible, move to a quieter spot, a corner, your car, or even just turning your back to curious onlookers can give your child the space they need to settle. Ignore any judgemental looks. Those people do not know your child’s story.

After the Storm Passes 

Keep your words few and clear. Too much talking can make the meltdown worse.³ If your child is small enough, holding them firmly but gently can help contain big movements and help them feel safer. After the outburst passes, they may feel drained or embarrassed. Offer water, a snack or a calming toy if you have one with you. Try not to lecture, save gentle explanations for later, when you are both home and your child feels safe again. 

Planning Ahead 

When things are calm, think about what might have triggered the meltdown. Was it too much noise, hunger, or a sudden change? Planning with snacks, headphones or a small comforting toy can help prevent future outbursts. 

Be kind to yourself too. A meltdown in public does not make you a bad parent. It shows that you are human, your child is learning, and you are both finding your way through, one hard moment at a time. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to care for our children with compassion, especially in times when they feel most vulnerable, no matter who is watching. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Ash-Sharh (94), Verses 5–6: 

‘For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease. Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease. ‘

This Ayah reminds you that every moment of difficulty carries a hidden blessing, even the moments that feel embarrassing and heavy. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3671, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Be kind to children and perfect in your upbringing of them. ‘

This Hadith Shareef inspires you to meet your child’s meltdown with gentleness, not shame, even if others do not understand. Make sincere Dua for Sabr and calmness when your child’s big feelings spill over in public. Remind yourself that Allah Almighty is Al-Baseer, the All-Seeing, He knows your struggle and your child’s unseen battles. May your calm presence comfort your child more than the fear of strangers’ eyes. May He reward every patient breath you take and replace your worry with strength, your exhaustion with hope, and your child’s outbursts with growing moments of calm, security and connection under His mercy.