“It’s Okay to be Angry” Kids Anger Management

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Anger can be a very overwhelming emotion for children to manage.
It is difficult for them to listen and process information while experiencing intense feelings.
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When your child is angry is not the time to lecture, admonish or preach. Talking should be kept to a minimum and communication should offer nurturing and support:
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• “I understand that you are angry”
• “I love you no matter what”
• “I am here for you”
• “I am willing to listen”
• “I am willing to help you figure things out if you want me to”
• “It’s okay to take some time and space to express your anger”

By repeating any of the above statements in a calm tone of voice you will be providing reassurance and a sense of security as your child grapples with uncomfortable feelings.

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​Normalizing anger as a healthy human emotion and modelling the assertive expression of anger are essential life skills that can be demonstrated in the home.

Children need to be given permission to acknowledge and feel their anger, to express their anger, and to resolve their angry feelings. Here are some suggestions for expressing and managing angry feelings:
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• Talk about what is making you angry with someone you trust
• Draw an angry picture
• Write down how you feel then crumple the paper
• Write a letter to the person you’re angry with
• Squeeze playdough or a soft rubber ball
• Pound a pillow or a cushion with your clenched fists
• Run on the spot
• Do jumping jacks

• Say a sound loudly such as: “aaaaaaaaah”, “ooooooh”, “eeeeeee”, “I’m so aaaangreeee!”  ( try not to disturb others with this)

• Then, after any one of the above, take three deep, slow breaths, in and out, stand tall and stretch your arms way up high, then bring them down, to feel calm and relaxed.

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The most valuable gift that a parent can give to a child, along with  unconditional love and support, is to model appropriate behaviour and teach by example.
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Lystra Mahabir-Mongroo    BA/BSW, MSW, EMDR II, C.Hyp.