Bright Steps · Free communication card
Communication for Yelling
A loud voice may be the fastest way your child knows to show a big need.
Step 1 — Spot the clue
Your child may be saying:
- “Listen to me.”
- “This is too hard.”
- “I need time before I can answer.”
Step 2 — Stop. Breathe. Say what you need.
- 1. Stop: Do not match the volume. Use one short sentence.
- 2. Breathe: Breathe out longer than you breathe in. Let your child see your calm.
- 3. Say what you need: Offer one line below.
Adult says
- “I hear that this is hard.”
- “I will listen when your voice is ready.”
- “Show me: help, space, or more time?”
Child can say
- “Listen, please.”
- “I need help.”
- “I need more time.”
Step 3 — Practice when calm
- 1. I Do — Parent models: Model a strong, quiet voice: “I need more time.”
- 2. We Do — Practice together: Say the line together at three different voice levels.
- 3. You Do — Child tries: Your child picks one line to use in the next hard moment.