• Accept anger as a normal emotion.

• Don’t respond to your children’s anger with outbursts of your own.

• Let your kids know when and why you are angry. This can improve your relationship.

• Think about anger triggers – feelings not heard or needs not met.

• Know signs of growing anger – sweaty palms, heart beating fast, clenching teeth, stomachache.

• Listen to your children’s angry feelings.

• Teach children to “use their words” rather than act out their feelings.

• Show children ways to calm down – doing jumping jacks, counting to ten, blowing bubbles, taking deep breaths.

• Show your anger in ways that do not blame or shame.

• Be patient – managing anger is the work of a lifetime.

The heat of the moment is not the best time to teach children. When strong emotions are present, parents may over-react. Kids may not be able to use the thinking part of their brains. The best time to teach children how to behave is when everyone is calm.

Emotions come and go. On average, emotions pass in 90 seconds. By waiting, you have a better chance of sharing your feelings in a healthy way.