Why Some Kids React Quickly

Here are some simple, down to earth ways to help resilience grow:

• Let the child take the lead during play.
  When children get to choose how they play, they practise problem solving and confidence without even noticing.

• Pay attention to what their behaviour is saying.
  Big reactions usually mean “I’m overwhelmed” or “I need help,” not “I’m being difficult.” Seeing the message behind the behaviour makes it easier to respond kindly.

• Use simple emotional language.
  Comments like “That felt really hard” or “You wanted that to go differently” help children feel seen without needing them to explain everything.

• Keep space for imagination.
  Children often work through stress by pretending, building, smashing, fixing, or repeating things. This is how many children process feelings long before they can talk about them.

• Show up the same way each time.
  Consistency makes children feel safe. When they know how an adult will respond, it’s easier for them to calm down and try again.

• Give room to figure things out.
  It’s tempting to jump in right away, but children build resilience when they are allowed to try, pause, think, and try again while knowing someone is nearby.

• At the heart of it, resilience grows through relationships. Children don’t need perfect adults. They need steady ones. When they feel supported and accepted for who they are, they learn that they can face challenges and recover from them.