You might have a child like this:
After throwing a tantrum, they curl up in a corner, silent and gloomy.
When scolded, they mutter to themselves, “It’s my fault…”
Even if you didn’t blame them, they’ll say sorry—again and again.
Sometimes, guilt makes them withdraw from activities or even avoid others altogether.
If you’ve ever wondered:
“Why are they always so hard on themselves? Why do they spiral into negative emotions so easily?”
— your child might be a classic 🎃 Oopsie Squashy-type.
🎃 Personality Traits:
Deeply sensitive and relationship-focused, but prone to emotional burnout.
These children often:
Constantly worry about how others feel, especially whether you are mad at them
Feel emotions quickly, but regret just as fast—often blaming themselves
Hold themselves to high standards and think, “I’m terrible” after one mistake
Choose silence or avoidance, afraid that speaking up will disappoint you
They’re not unwilling to talk—they just feel they’ve lost the right to speak. They’re afraid of hurting others or being disliked.
💡 What 🎃 Oopsie Squashy kids might be thinking inside:
“I don’t want to make you angry, but I couldn’t control myself…”
“I didn’t mean it… I really feel bad…”
“Does making one mistake mean I’m a bad kid?”
“If I keep to myself… would everyone be happier?”
✅ How Can I Support Them?
1. Separate emotions from behavior: help them see that ‘doing wrong’ ≠ ‘being bad’
👨👩👧: “I don’t agree with what you did today, but I will always love you.”
✅ This helps them understand that they are still lovable—even when they mess up.
2. Let them express their regret—don’t rush them to “stop crying”
Ask:
“Do you want to talk about what made you so angry earlier?”
“Are you feeling like you didn’t do very well just now?”
✅ When they open up, it means they’re starting to understand themselves—and they trust you enough to try.
3. Teach them how to repair relationships—instead of staying stuck in guilt
For example:
“Want to try drawing a little card to say sorry to your brother for yelling?”
“If you ever feel like you’re about to explode again, tell me first—I’ll help you find a way.”
✅ The goal isn’t punishment—it’s giving them courage to reconnect.
4. Acknowledge their ability to self-reflect—instead of treating their guilt as a nuisance
Say:
“I appreciate how you think about your actions, but you don’t need to keep blaming yourself.”
“For someone your age, it’s amazing how well you understand yourself.”
✅ Help turn guilt into growth, not emotional burden.
🎃 Oopsie Squashy kids want you to know:
“I’m not disobedient—I just don’t know how to express myself.”
“I’m not useless—I’m just scared of hurting you.”
“I really want to learn how to do better… but I need your help, not just your blame.”
💬 What you can say to them:
“You don’t need to be perfect—I love the real, honest you.”
“Your guilt shows you have a kind heart. I see that.”
“It’s okay to make mistakes—let’s think together about how we can do better next time.”