Description
“They know it’s wrong… so why do they keep doing it?”
When a child lashes out—especially with hitting—it can feel confusing, upsetting, even frightening.
But hitting isn’t always about aggression.
It’s often a sign of overwhelm. A signal from a nervous system that’s struggling to cope.
Our thoughtfully comprised toolkit covers practical tools, strategies, scripts and visuals for understanding and managing aggressive behaviours in children
Section 1: Understanding the Behaviour
Why Do Children Hit? – Explainer sheet
Mini Neuroscience for Grown-Ups – Fight/flight and the developing brain
Meltdown vs Tantrum
Signs of Emotional Dysregulation – Visual checklist
Common and Hidden Triggers – Trigger-mapping worksheet
Section 2: Safety & Regulation Tools
Safety Plan Template – For home and school settings
Zones & Safe Signals – Visual prompt cards
Calming Toolkit Builder – Blank template for child-led choices
Parent Self-Regulation Sheet – Pause and ground techniques
Repair Guide – 3-Step reconnect script for after hitting
Section 3: Boundaries & Alternatives
Scripts for Setting Boundaries with Empathy
Hitting Alternatives Poster Pack – Printable visuals for children
Co-Regulation Prompt Cards – What to say and do in the moment
Section 4: Support Beyond the Home
School Communication Planner – Notes for meetings and strategy sharing
Parent-Educator Support Plan Template – Consistent care form
Create a Regulation-Friendly Environment – Home/school checklist
Bonus Resources
Kind Hands and Feet Social Story
Emotions resources
Calming Resources
Additional Parent Education Sheets
