How to Handle Outbursts and Meltdowns in Nursery Settings and Primary Schools

Course overview

In this two-hour virtual session, you will learn about the types of outbursts and meltdowns that you are likely to encounter when working in nursery settings and primary schools, and how to respond positively to these behaviours in ways that support children to learn how to regulate their emotions.

Outbursts and meltdowns are normal parts of development for toddlers and young children, yet it can be difficult for adults to know how best to respond to them. While there is plenty of advice available on how to respond, much of it is conflicting and, in some cases, even harmful. What’s often not made clear is that outbursts and meltdowns require different responses from the adult.

Drawing on current research into the development of the brain, this course explains the neuroscience behind outbursts and meltdowns, gives you tools to distinguish between the two and provides tried and tested strategies for responding in ways that promote brain integration and emotional regulation.

Actionable insights, tips and techniques

By the end of this two-hour session, you will know how to:

• distinguish between outbursts and meltdowns displayed by toddlers and young children
• explain why outbursts and meltdowns occur
• adjust your responses moment by moment to meet children where they are at
• apply Thrive strategies and activities to respond effectively to outbursts and meltdowns
• set effective boundaries to reduce the frequency of outbursts and meltdowns
• communicate to others about how best to respond to outbursts and meltdowns.

Suitable for

Thrive Licensed Practitioners.