As a therapist who delights in working with children, I’ve come to understand that interrupting isn’t just rudeness—it’s often a child’s brain struggling with impulse control and the overwhelming need to be heard.
The Volcano Effect
Just like the character in “My Mouth is a Volcano,” many children experience thoughts and feelings with such urgency that holding them in feels impossible. Their ideas feel like molten lava, building pressure until they simply must erupt. What adults perceive as disrespectful interrupting is often a child’s genuine inability to contain their excitement, worry, or need for connection.
The Impact of Constant Correction
When children are repeatedly told “don’t interrupt” without understanding why or learning alternatives, they may begin to feel that their thoughts and feelings don’t matter. This can lead to either complete withdrawal—shutting down their natural enthusiasm—or escalated interrupting as they desperately try to be heard. The shame cycle that develops can impact their confidence in social situations for years.
Teaching Volcano Management
“My Mouth is a Volcano” beautifully illustrates that children can learn to recognize when their thoughts are “bubbling up” and practice strategies like writing down their idea, using a gentle hand signal, or taking a deep breath. The goal isn’t to suppress their enthusiasm but to channel it appropriately.
Building Communication Skills
Rather than simply saying “stop interrupting,” we can teach children the social dance of conversation—how to read body language, wait for natural pauses, and use phrases like “excuse me” when something truly urgent arises.
Remember: behind every interrupting child is often an excited mind bursting with things to share with the world.
Salt + Cedar Collective 