---
title: How to help your child build self-control
description: Kids who have trouble with self-control may struggle to keep emotions, behavior, and impulses in check. Get age-specific tips on how to help your child with self-control.
slug: how-to-help-your-child-build-self-control
author: The Understood Team
published: '2019-10-16T11:46:40.720Z'
thumbnail: https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/dSAAMkeeWEEX3hL4QZ3Jx/23993b33b2a12456002260653719abae/G931723492.jpg
source_url: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/how-to-help-your-child-build-self-control
lang: en
---

# How to help your child build self-control

[Self-control](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/self-control-what-it-means-for-kids) is an important social skill for kids. But keeping impulses in check can be a challenge for many kids who learn and think differently. Explore ways you can help your child work on this skill at various ages.

---

## Explore related topics and articles

- [Impulsivity in kids: Your questions answered](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/impulsivity-in-kids-your-questions-answered) - Does your child have trouble with self-control? Spotting impulsive behavior in kids can be tricky. Here, our experts answer common questions families have about impulsivity.
- [How to help kids manage overexcitement in different grades](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/how-to-help-kids-manage-overexcitement-in-different-grades) - Lots of kids who learn and think differently struggle with self-control. That can make it hard to keep excitement in check. How can you help your child stay calm in overexcited moments? Here are ideas to help kids at different ages.
- [What is self-control?](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/self-control-what-it-means-for-kids) - -  Self-control is a complex skill that develops over time. -  Self-control includes controlling impulses, emotions, and physical activity. -  Common challenges like ADHD can cause self-control problems.   Self-control is part of a group of skills that allow kids and adults to manage their thoughts,

---

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