64: When Meltdowns Turn Physical: How to Handle Hitting, Throwing, Kicking, And Keeping Your Cool

This episode is inspired by a really thoughtful comment from a listener on our last episode over on YouTube.

They asked about one of the toughest parenting challenges: how to handle meltdowns when your child gets physically aggressive—hitting, kicking, or even breaking things.

Parenting through aggression and meltdowns is arguably the hardest thing we face.

Alex (the husband's back!) and I dive into the question from a listener: How do you handle it when a child melts down and gets physically aggressive?

We’re sharing our own experiences with this, including how we’ve navigated hitting, kicking, and even destructive behaviour using emotional intelligence and compassion.

We go through step-by-step strategies for handling those tough moments—like during transitions or when switching off a device—while holding firm boundaries around unsafe or hurtful actions.

We also clear up some big confusion around consequences: when they’re helpful, when they’re not, and why punishments and holding a grudge can actually backfire.

If you’ve ever struggled to keep your cool during your child’s meltdowns, this episode is full of relatable insights and practical tips to help you feel more calm and in control.

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1. Introduction to Raising Emotionally Intelligent Kids
2. From Reactive To Responsive Parenting: End The Yelling With Emotional Intelligence
3. Supporting Anxious and Sensitive Kids
4. Decoding and Defusing Challenging Behaviour
5. EFT Tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques)

Find them at stephaniepinto.com

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If this resonates with you, I'd love to hear from you. Email us at hello@stephaniepinto.com and send me your thoughts, feedback or questions!

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Hi! I am an Emotional Intelligence best-selling author, award-winning coach and international speaker. I'm also a paediatric anxiety therapist (and previous speech language pathologist!) and I love helping people use emotional intelligence to become calmer, more connected and live happier lives!

Book a consult with me to discuss coaching, support, collaborations or speaking engagements.

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