Why Kids Act Out - (and What They’re Really Asking For)

When your child’s behavior feels confusing or explosive, it’s easy to think they’re being defiant — but most of the time, their actions are actually messages from an overwhelmed nervous system.

In this free 60-minute class, you’ll learn how to look beneath behavior to understand what your child’s brain and body are really communicating — and how your calm presence helps them find theirs.

Through stories, science, and practical examples, you’ll discover:

• What’s really happening in your child’s brain and nervous system when they “act out.”
• How to recognize the signals beneath big emotions.
• How to create safety and connection that help your child regulate and learn.

You’ll leave with a grounded understanding of what drives behavior — and realistic, compassionate tools to bring more peace and cooperation into your home.

What You’ll Learn

• The neuroscience behind big emotions (and why logic doesn’t work when kids are dysregulated)
• How to tell the difference between intentional behavior and stress responses
• How your own calm becomes your child’s emotional anchor
• Practical co-regulation tools to use in everyday moments
• A simple framework for building safety, trust, and resilience at home

Who It’s For

Parents, caregivers, and educators who want to:

• Understand behavior through the lens of brain science and emotional safety
• Respond to challenging moments with confidence instead of guilt
• Build more cooperation, peace, and connection at home

About Your Host

Kelly McIntosh is an mindfulness teacher, and educator and parent coach who helps parents and teachers build emotional intelligence and nervous-system safety through compassion and science.

With nearly two decades of experience in education and trauma-informed practices, Kelly brings a grounded, realistic approach that blends neuroscience, mindfulness, and heart-centered tools for connection.

She’s also the creator of Still + Wild — a 5-month experience for women ready to calm their nervous system and live from peace, not pressure.

Event Details

📅 Date: Thursday November 20 7pm
📍 Location: Zoom link will be emailed prior to event
💰 Cost: Free (registration required)

You’ll Leave With

✔️ A deeper understanding of what your child’s behavior is communicating
✔️ Tools to help you stay calm and connected in tough moments
✔️ A printable “Calm Plan” you can use at home
✔️ Hope and relief knowing that your child’s challenges make sense — and that you can help

Bonus

Everyone who attends will receive early access to my upcoming Still + Wild group — a 5-month journey to calm your nervous system, rewire habits, and create the peace you’ve been craving.