Ways for Kids to Release Anger

Remind him about what is going well in his life.

Help your child deal with his feelings and release anger in a constructive manner. Working with your child can help ensure that he doesn't unleash too much anger at once and lash out by fighting, causing trouble or saying things he regrets later. Identify the source of his anger first and work to solve the problem or help him feel more comfortable about a situation. Some kids may act up when their parents get divorced or because of a recent move, so knowing the triggers helps.

Talking

Talking to your child about his feelings may help release his emotions before anger really sets in. Listen to everything he has to say first, and sit down or lower yourself to his level to avoid towering over him. This added step may help him feel more comfortable. Turn off the television and don't answer the phone while you talk to him. Once he's finished, talk to him about possible solutions to help him feel better. Tell him things can and will get better and encourage him to stay positive. Just talking may help him feel relieved, and he may start crying, but that's okay. Give him a hug and continue talking until his frown turns into a smile.

Physical Activity

Help your child relieve anger and stress by running with him at the child park, playing basketball or participating in some type of physical activity. Spending this time together may strengthen the bond between you and your little boy, and it can get his mind off of a stressful situation.

Control Your Own Anger

Sometimes kids display anger because this is a common behavior they see at home. Kids look to their parents as an example, so always model good behavior. Release anger by practicing deep breathing, taking a walk or taking a hot bath. Avoid swearing or displaying anger in front of your child. Go somewhere else if you really feel like you need to shout. Dr. Sears, a pediatrician, says to heal your angry past by resolving past issues and letting go of old feelings that inhibit you from having inner peace. Seek counseling if you feel like you can't do this on your own.

Laughing

Laughing with your child may also help him to release anger and feel much better. Dr. Sears says humor can prevent trivial upsets from escalating and diffuse anger. Say something funny or put on a funny movie -- even if he's storming through the house. Wait and see how he reacts. He might continue to stew, but he might also mellow out and release his emotions with a good laugh. Even if he doesn't respond right away, continue laughing and having a good time because it's often infectious.

References

• Ask Dr. Sears: 7 Ways to Help the Angry Child
• Ask Dr. Sears: 5 Ways Parents Can Handle Their Anger
• "Parenting" magazine: Aggressive Toddlers; William Sears