Whether through verbal communication or creative self-expression, teaching a child to calm down and process their feelings is imperative to his overall development. But getting a child to do that is typically easier said than done. So to help you out, we’ve gathered a few techniques that will help you and your child build their communication skills and lessen — and hopefully eliminate — their tantrums altogether.

How to teach your child to calm down and relax. Here's 3 parenting tips.

1. Speak calmly.

One effective and rewarding way to get your child to calm down and relax is to speak to them calmly. If your child is behaving hysterically, calmly explain that you would like to hear what they're saying, but can't understand what’s being said when he is having a tantrum. Once your child has calmed down, take a moment to work through what he is feeling. Doing this will take time, but by being patient and talking him through it, your child will learn what it is to process his feelings and not immediately react to them. 

2. Practice.

Another great way to teach your child to calm down and relax is to practice yoga or meditation. Not only is yoga good for their physical well-being, but it will get them into the habit of breathing and listening to their bodies. You can including calming activities on an online or mobile chore tracker. With active practice, they will learn to notice when they're getting worked up, and will take the necessary steps to calm themselves back down. If further incentive is required, you could also implement a universal wishlist so your child can work towards that prize they really desire.

3. Express through art.

Art is another way to encourage positive self-expression. For children — specifically toddlers — who are too young to articulate what it is they are feeling, art may be the greatest outlet they have. If possible, set aside time each afternoon for fun art projects. During this time, your child will not only have fun, but they will learn how to express themselves in a positive way. You can also use that time to talk to them about what it is they’re feeling; helping them to place words on the feeling. When your kids have reached school-age, sitting with them after school while they color, draw, paint, sculpt, or write about their day will teach them to release whatever has happened and enter into a clean, relaxed evening.