ADHD Aha! cover image

ADHD Aha!

How to tell the difference between tantrums and meltdowns (from the “What Now? A Parent’s Guide” podcast)

Nov 21, 2023
Dr. Andrew Kahn, psychologist and dad, explains the difference between tantrums and meltdowns in children with ADHD. He provides practical strategies for parents to respond effectively, emphasizing the importance of observation and presence. Check out more helpful advice for parents on understood.org.
08:44

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Differentiating between tantrums and meltdowns is crucial for parents to effectively address their child's needs.
  • Recognizing the signs of a tantrum versus a meltdown can assist parents in tailoring their responses and accessing additional resources to manage challenging situations.

Deep dives

Understanding Meltdowns

In this episode of the What Now? podcast, Dr. Andrew Kahn discusses the difference between tantrums and meltdowns and how parents should respond to each. Meltdowns occur when a child loses control of their emotional functioning, resulting in an energy explosion where they may be unable to hear or respond to others. The primary goal during a meltdown is to ensure the child's safety until it passes. On the other hand, tantrums are driven by the child's desire to attain attention or something they want or avoid responsibility. Parents can respond to tantrums by avoiding fueling the behavior and setting boundaries. Differentiating between tantrums and meltdowns is crucial for parents to effectively address their child's needs.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode