Key points

“How was school?” is too much for a tired brain. Connect first, talk later.

Hungry, thirsty, full bladder? Meet body needs before tackling behavior.

Some kids crave movement like snacks—give them ways to wiggle at school.

Don't second-guess yourself. After-school restraint collapse isn't personal, it's biological.

Most parents know the scene. You pick up your child from school, ready to hear about their day, and within minutes, there are tears, meltdowns, or angry outbursts. Or maybe it looks different in your house: Your child gets silly, wild, and harder to settle. Welcome to the wonderful world of after-school restraint collapse .

All day at school, kids work hard to manage themselves. They follow rules, use polite words, sit still, and keep their emotions in check. T

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