Why is my child grumpy after school?

After-school meltdowns are real. Kids hold it together all day and finally release at home.

What to do, step by step:

1. Don’t ask questions right away.
   Greet them with calm energy.
   
2. Offer food and water.
   Hunger often fuels grumpiness.
   
3. Allow quiet decompression.
   No pressure to talk immediately.
   
4. Reconnect later.
   “You looked tired earlier—want to tell me about your day now?”
   
5. End with empathy.
   “School days are long. I’m proud of you.”