A Parent’s Guide to What Is Normal: Emotions & Big Reactions

Big emotions and sudden behavior changes are part of growing up. This episode helps parents understand emotional development, what’s common at different ages, and when reactions may signal something more. Featuring Deborah G Badawi, MD, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at University of Maryland School of Medicine and Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician at University of Maryland Medical Center. [Audio description: 0:00 — Intro graphic displays the podcast title and UMMS logo. 0:05 — Title card displays episode title "A Parent's Guide to What Is Normal: Emotions & Big Reactions," podcast and episode information, and UMMS branding. 0:12 — Graphic displays "with Deborah G. Badawi, MD, ." 0:25 — Both speakers are identified on screen. Host Nolan Alexander and Deborah G. Badawi, MD, Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician. 14:14 — End card displays the Live Greater logo, UMMS logo, and text: "To find more shows, visit: www.umms.org/podcast"] For more information about Dr. Badawi, visit https://www.umms.org/find-a-doctor/pr.... For more information about Pediatrics at UM Gulisano Children’s Hospital, visit https://www.umms.org/childrens. To find another pediatrics provide in Maryland, visit https://www.umms.org/health-services/.... 00:00 Introductions 01:07 What is normal vs. what stands out in toddler big reactions? 01:57 When do tantrums start to impact daily life? 02:56 How to tell a typical tantrum vs. an emotionally overwhelmed child 03:52 Do poor sleep, illness, or routine changes affect a child’s emotions? 04:39 How does brain development affect emotional regulation? 05:42 What are examples of day‑to‑day stress that lower a child’s threshold? 06:30 When should emotional reactions prompt evaluation or professional help? 07:41 How do anxiety, sensory overload, or ADHD show up as big reactions? 08:52 Signs parents should watch for beyond “bad behavior” 10:17 How can parents help children regulate and label emotions? 11:51 If a parent doesn’t stay calm, how do they repair and do better next time? 12:51 Key takeaways and final advice 13:37 Outro and where to find more episodes #ChildDevelopment #EmotionalRegulation #ParentingAdvice #ChildPsychology #Tantrums #MentalHealth #UMMSHealth