Episode 9 - The Power of Anticipation: How to Prevent Meltdowns Before They Start

Episode Overview

Meltdowns rarely come out of nowhere. Long before the yelling, crying, or shutdown, a child’s nervous system is already working overtime. The challenge is that most parents are taught to respond to behavior, not to the signals that come before it.

In this episode of Raise Strong, we explore the power of anticipation. You will learn how to recognize early warning signs of dysregulation, understand what your child’s body is communicating, and step in early with support that actually helps.

Anticipation is not about controlling emotions or preventing all hard moments. It is about meeting your child sooner, when their nervous system is still flexible and receptive.

What You Will Learn

✔️ Why meltdowns are predictable from a nervous system perspective

✔️ How stress builds throughout the day and shows up as behavior

✔️ Early body, voice, and tolerance cues that signal rising dysregulation

✔️ Why transitions are such a common trigger for big emotions

✔️ How to step in early without hovering or overcorrecting

✔️ The difference between prevention and control

✔️ Common mistakes parents make when trying to anticipate meltdowns

✔️ One simple practice to start using anticipation this week

Key Takeaways1. Behavior is the outcome, not the starting point.

Meltdowns begin in the nervous system long before behavior appears.

2. The earlier you step in, the easier the moment becomes.

Early support reduces intensity and shortens recovery time.

3. Anticipation is about patterns, not perfection.

When you notice patterns across the day, you gain clarity and confidence.

4. Fewer words and more presence go a long way.

As stress rises, the nervous system responds best to calm, simple cues.

5. Supporting early does not mean giving in.

Lowering demands temporarily protects regulation and builds cooperation later.

This Week’s Practice

Choose one recurring situation to observe this week.

After school.

Bedtime.

Transitions away from screens.

Notice what changes in your child’s body, voice, or tolerance before things get hard. Then choose one small way to step in earlier with support, connection, or predictability.

Small changes made early can prevent big moments later.

Resource Links

• Calm Down Corner Essentials - https://bit.ly/48WbUUh
• 7 Simple Phrases to Help Your Child Calm Down Without Power Struggles - Download your FREE guide now! - AlexAndersonKahl.com/7-simple-phrases
• Visit Our Website - AlexAndersonKahl.com
• The Meltdown Map: 5 Steps to Handle your Child's Big Emotions - AlexAndersonKahl.com/meltdown-map

Support the Show

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Next Week on Raise Strong

Episode 10: Moving Beyond the “Participation Trophy” — How to Build Real Grit and Self-Worth

We will explore what actually builds resilience and confidence in kids, without pressure or empty praise. A thoughtful, science-backed conversation every parent needs.