S3E45 - The Emotional Crash After Fun Activities: What Parents Need to Know

Play Therapy Parenting: Real Parenting Questions Answered by a Child Therapist · May 22, 2026 · 14m · transcript

In this episode, I answer a question from an adoptive mom whose three-year-old becomes extremely dysregulated before and after exciting events like family camp, theme parks, or outings. I explain why children who crave stability and predictability can become emotionally overwhelmed when routines, environments, and expectations suddenly change—even when the experience itself is positive and enjoyable. What can look like "crazy behavior" or chaos is often a child showing externally what they are feeling internally.

I also walk through why controlling behavior often emerges after children feel…