Strong-Willed Kids Need an Anchor

Big feelings aren’t bad behavior. Calm boundaries, 2 choices, and steady energy turn power struggles into emotional safety.

A strong-willed child isn’t trying to break you — they’re trying to lead. The secret is not more control, it’s more connection. Start with calm boundaries: say what is happening, give two choices, and stay steady when they push back. Don’t match their intensity — lower yours. Your child needs a parent who can be the anchor, not the storm. Gentle parenting doesn’t mean no discipline. It means firm, kind, and consistent. Every hard moment is a chance to teach emotional safety. Keep showing up, keep regulating first, and remember: their big feelings are not your failure. Follow for more practical parenting tools.