When Big Feelings Overflow: Supporting Our 2e Kids

The thrown remote, the homework battle, the meltdown aimed at the person they love most—you. Sound familiar?

Parent coach Tosha Schore reminds us: your child isn’t giving you a hard time—they’re having a hard time. What looks like defiance is often fear, overwhelm, or sensory overload. Shifting from “won’t” to “can’t” opens the door to empathy, connection, and calmer moments.

Simple strategies—talk less during meltdowns, set clear limits with Listen-Limit-Listen, and spend daily undistracted time together—can help your child safely navigate big feelings. Remember: connection matters more than compliance, and showing up consistently helps your 2e child feel understood, loved, and safe.