Aromachildhood

10 Simple Ways to Stop Your Kids Yelling At You

Growing up in a household where yelling was practically non-existent, I was fortunate enough to see that frustration didn’t have to equate to raised voices. My mum and nan never yelled; it just wasn’t an option for them. 

This quiet strength shaped my own approach to parenting, showing me that deep breaths and calm voices often work wonders, even in the face of big emotions.

The first step in addressing your child’s behavior is understanding why they’re yelling. Often, young children lack the emotional regulation skills that adults have, so they express frustration, anger, or sadness through yelling.

10 Simple Ways to Stop Your Kids Yelling At You© Provided by Crunchy Family

Remembering your own childhood might help you empathize with them. Did you ever scream out of frustration or anger? It’s a big emotion for a little person to handle.

The most important thing you can do when your child starts yelling is to stay calm. This is easier said than done, especially after a tough day at work or during the morning rush. 

Trust me…I have been there many times. Taking a deep breath and managing your own emotions sets a powerful example for your child.

When you remain calm, you’re using your prefrontal cortex – the part of the brain responsible for decision-making and self-control – and you’re modelling this behavior for them.

Also, when you discipline your child without yelling, you are showing the best example of communicating without raised voices. When you don’t yell at your child, or in your household, your child is much less likely to yell at you.

But, it could still happen so let’s take a look at some techniques to nip it in the bud.

1-Eye Contact

10 Simple Ways to Stop Your Kids Yelling At You© Provided by Crunchy Family

When your child screams, get down to their eye level and make gentle eye contact. This helps them feel seen and heard, which can be incredibly soothing. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in diffusing the situation.

2-Acknowledge Their Feelings

Acknowledge your child’s feelings without condoning their behavior. Saying something like, “I can see you’re very upset. It’s okay to feel angry, but it’s not okay to yell,” validates their emotions while setting clear boundaries.

3-Positive Mantra

In the heat of the moment, a positive mantra can help both you and your child. Something like “We use our words, not our screams” can reinforce the behavior you want to see.

Over time, this becomes a positive reinforcement tool that encourages better behavior.

4-Calm Down Space

10 Simple Ways to Stop Your Kids Yelling At You© Provided by Crunchy Family

Having a designated calm down space can be a game-changer. This isn’t a punishment, but a great place where your child can go to regain control over their emotions and sometimes letting them alone for an instant to deal with it themselves is the best way to do it. It works great with my daughter.

Fill it with comforting items like stuffed animals, books, or even a mindfulness technique card to guide them through deep breaths.

5-Root Causes

Sometimes, yelling is a symptom of deeper issues like stress, hunger, or tiredness. Ensuring your child is well-rested and has eaten healthy foods can prevent many outbursts.

Good news – spending time together in a calm and nurturing environment also helps.

6-Effective Communication

Teaching your child productive ways to express their feelings can prevent a lot of yelling. Role-playing different scenarios and teaching them phrases like “I feel angry because…” can equip them with the tools they need for effective communication.

7-Redirection

10 Simple Ways to Stop Your Kids Yelling At You© Provided by Crunchy Family

One of the most effective strategies for managing a child’s yelling is redirection. When a child is caught in a cycle of yelling, sometimes the best way to break the pattern is to distract them with a different activity or focus their attention elsewhere.

This method not only stops the yelling in its tracks but also teaches your child how to shift their own focus and manage their emotional responses in a healthier way.

8-Avoid Power Struggles

Avoiding a power struggle is crucial. Engaging in a screaming match with your child only escalates the situation and can lead to a vicious cycle of yelling.

Instead, calmly state your expectations and follow through with consequences if needed. 

10 Simple Ways to Stop Your Kids Yelling At You© Provided by Crunchy Family

Catch them being good! Positive reinforcement for good behavior can lead to positive changes over time. Praising your child for using their words or calming down on their own encourages them to keep up the good work.

10-Emotional Regulation

Teaching your child mindfulness techniques can help them manage their big feelings. Simple practices like deep breathing, counting to ten, or imagining a peaceful place can be incredibly effective in helping them regulate their emotions.

10 Simple Ways to Stop Your Kids Yelling At You© Provided by Crunchy Family

Being a parent is challenging, and every family has bad days. But with patience, understanding, and the right tools, you can reduce the yelling and create a more peaceful home environment. Remember, there’s no such thing as a perfect parent. 

We’re all human beings, learning and growing alongside our children. By focusing on calmer responses, positive reinforcement, and effective communication, you’re setting the stage for happy kids and a happier you.10 Simple Ways to Stop Your Kids Yelling At You© Provided by Crunchy Family

Next time your child yells, take a deep breath and remember – you’ve got this. And if it doesn’t go perfectly the first time, there’s always the next day to try again. 

Story by Luciana Oliveira: Crunchy Family