Your child’s meltdown might not be emotional.
It might be physical.
Here’s how to tell the difference:
When a toddler falls apart, we notice their challenging behaviour.
Of course we do!
They’re throwing playing cards across the restaurant.
(this was my kid four days ago)
But what looks like defiance could actually be:
– A blood sugar crash
– A cortisol spike
– Too little sleep
– Missing minerals after a hot day
Physical, not emotional.
And therefore requiring a physical solution!
Here’s how to decode it, and what to do next.
1. Screaming, flailing, wild energy?
→ Likely cause: Cortisol spike
→ What to do: Lower your voice & say less. Get close without overwhelming
2. Sudden sobbing or rage with no warning?
→ Likely cause: Low blood sugar
→ What to do: Offer protein + carbs. (NOT sugar – they’ll crash later)
3. Outbursts over tiny things, or “I can’t do it!” meltdowns?
→ Likely cause: Sleep debt
→ What to do: Don’t bother reasoning. Get them to rest ASAP.
4. Whiny, clingy, complaining of tummy aches after an active day?
→ Likely cause: Electrolyte imbalance
→ What to do: Give salty snacks, rehydration drinks, or broth-based meals.
5. Nothing goes right and everything’s a battle?
→ Likely cause: Cumulative overload
→ What to do: Cancel plans. Reduce demands. Calm the body first.
Once you understand the biology, the behaviour makes more sense!
And you can respond better and feel much calmer about it all.
When we teach our Koru Kids nannies this stuff it’s often a lightbulb moment.
