When dealing with meltdowns, or rage, it is important to
recognise when it is possible to negotiate, re-direct or deflect
the child's emotion... and when it is time to "ride it out",
letting the emotion take its course. If we can catch a
child/youth before the emotion takes over their reasoning or
thinking power, we are more likely to prevent or minimise the
meltdown (Myles and Southwick, 2005). The Rage Cycle According
to Myles and Southwick (2005) the rage cycle includes three main
stages - the rumbling stage, the rage stage, and the recovery
stage. They suggest that before and after these stages teachable
moments occur. Once the rage cycle starts, the opportunity for
the child to learn is gone. At this stage it is about management
and, where possible, prevention of escalation. The Rumbling
Stage Parents have often expressed to me the fact that they can
tell when a meltdown is coming on. The signs could be
categorised into four different categories: - Physical signs,
including fidgeting, tapping, restlessne