05/08/2026
A meltdown happens when a child is completely overwhelmed and loses control — it’s not deliberate, and they need calm support to regulate. A tantrum is different: it’s goal-driven behavior where the child is still able to choose and is often looking for a specific outcome. Understanding which one is happening matters, because responding with empathy helps with meltdowns, while clear boundaries help with tantrums. Using the wrong approach can make things worse.