Kids don’t melt down to be difficult—their brains are still wiring for self-control. This parent guide explains the science behind big feelings, why co-regulation works, and how play therapy teaches kids to name emotions, calm their bodies, and problem-solve through toys, stories, and imagination. You’ll get simple at-home strategies (balloon breaths, calm corners, emotion charades), signs it’s time to seek help, and hope from real-life examples. Written by Orlando child therapists at The Counseling Corner.