Childhood & Teen RSD Situations
Help your child through common moments that trigger big feelings. Each situation includes what to say, what to do, and how to build resilience.
Quick
What's happening
Understand
Why it hurts so much
Support
What to say & do
Build
Long-term resilience
Written for Parents
These guides help you understand what your child is experiencing and give you specific phrases and actions to support them. The "Support" section includes scripts you can adapt for your child's age and situation.
Not Picked for a Team
When your child is picked last or not chosen for a team or group activity.
Friend Didn't Want to Play
When a friend says no to playing or chooses to play with someone else.
Teacher Corrected Them
When a teacher points out a mistake or gives correction in class.
Not Invited to a Party
Finding out about a birthday party or playdate they weren't included in.
Someone Laughed at Them
When other kids laughed at something they said or did.
Got a Bad Grade
Receiving a disappointing mark on a test, assignment, or report card.
Parent Said No
When you said no to something they wanted and they're devastated.
Lost a Game
When they lose at a board game, video game, or sport and can't handle it.
Sibling Got More Attention
When they feel you gave more attention to their sibling.
"You're Not My Friend"
When another child said those devastating words.
Made a Mistake in Class
When they got an answer wrong in front of everyone.
Not Chosen for Special Task
When the teacher picked someone else for a special job or role.
No Likes on Their Post
When their social media post gets few or no likes/comments.
Crush Doesn't Like Them Back
When they discover their crush doesn't feel the same way.
Left Out of Group Chat
When they discover friends have a group chat without them.
Failed an Important Exam
When they did poorly on a test they studied hard for.
Cut from Team or Audition
When they didn't make the team, cast, or club they tried out for.
Compared to Sibling
When they feel compared unfavorably to a sibling.
Rumor Spread About Them
When they discover people are talking behind their back.
Breakup or Romantic Rejection
When a relationship ends or they face romantic rejection.
Friends Hung Out Without Them
When they see on social media that friends did something without them.
Mean Comments Online
When someone posts something hurtful about them online.
General Tips for Supporting a Child with RSD
Validate first
Acknowledge their feelings before problem-solving.
Stay calm
Your calm presence helps regulate their nervous system.
Don't minimize
"It's not a big deal" feels dismissive to them.
Name the feeling
Help them identify: "It sounds like you felt left out."
Wait for calm
Problem-solve after the emotional wave passes.
Physical comfort
Hugs, weighted blankets, or just sitting close helps.
Need More Support?
Our Children's and Teens Resource sections have in-depth guides, activity workbooks, and school support materials.