Supporting Big Emotions: Helping Children Feel Calm, Confident and in Control

One of the greatest joys of my work is supporting children and their families as they learn tools to navigate big emotions.

Recently, a mum reached out looking for support for her young son, who we’ll call Charlie. Charlie had ADHD and was experiencing some challenging behaviours at home, as well as difficulties at school.

His mum shared that he often felt frustrated in class when he became bored, struggled when he had to wait his turn in the playground, and found it difficult when disagreements with friends didn’t go his way.

Like many children with ADHD, Charlie was experiencing big feelings without yet having the tools to understand or regulate them.

Over a six-week period, I worked closely with Charlie and his parents using EFT tapping techniques designed especially for children.

Together, we explored the different emotions Charlie was experiencing and helped him put words to feelings that previously felt confusing or overwhelming. Learning to label emotions is a powerful first step in helping children feel more in control of their experiences.

Charlie also learned simple tapping techniques he could use throughout his day — in the classroom when he felt restless, in the playground when waiting his turn, or after disagreements with friends.

What made this journey particularly special was the commitment from Charlie’s parents. Both mum and dad chose to attend their own EFT sessions so they could better understand emotional regulation and support Charlie between sessions.

By working together as a family, the change was remarkable.

Within a short time, both parents noticed significant shifts in Charlie’s behaviour, confidence, and ability to calm himself when emotions ran high.

It’s a beautiful reminder that when children are given the right tools — and when parents are supported alongside them — real transformation can happen.

I feel incredibly grateful to work with families in this way and to help children learn emotional regulation skills that will support them for life.

If your child struggles with big emotions, anxiety, or overwhelm, you can learn more about the Children’s Big Emotions Packages here.

(Although permission was given by Charlie and his family to share this story, his name was changed for privacy in our small town).