Mothers, you know that when your toddlers are throwing tantrums, it can be tough to remain calm and not scream your lungs out in the process or spank them.
Children between the ages of 1 and 4 haven’t developed good coping skills yet and the only way they know to get attention is by throwing tantrums. Their tantrums result from what they are not getting.
For older toddlers, tantrums are more of a power struggle. By the time they are 3 or 4, they are aware of their needs and desires and want to assert themselves more by demanding for things and if you don’t comply, they visit tantrum city.
Dear moms, you may not be able to avoid toddler tantrums completely, but you can minimize their intensity and frequency with these helpful tips:
*Make sure your toddler has freedom and time to run and play without worrying about making a mess or being stopped from engaging in fun activities around the house or outside.
*Don’t allow yourself to feel guilty or out of control because of your child’s tantrum. Keep in mind that your toddler’s actions are not directed at you as they are simply a show of his or her own frustrations.
*Practice prevention of tantrums. Making sure your child is well-rested and relaxed because too much stress can make toddlers start throwing unnecessary tantrums.
*Stay calm. Whenyour child throws a tantrum, you have to remain in control. Gently, but firmly, hold your child to keep him from hurting himself or others.
*Distract your child. Before a tantrum intensifies, your child may be responsive to a distraction, so provide him or her with a captivating distraction.
*Help undo frustration. If your toddler is frustrated because he can’t put on their shoes, help him do that patiently so that he can feel a sense of accomplishment afterwards.
*Don’t give in to incessant demands. Public tantrums cause some moms to give in to their toddler’s tantrums just to reduce embarrassment,but this response will energize your child to repeat the tantrum the next time you go out.
*If your toddler is throwing tantrums in public, ignore what other people are saying at that point in time and focus on your child. As calmly as possible, state your rule and move on.
*Discuss your toddler’s tantrum. After your child has calmed down, talk about what made him or her so upset but make sure you don’t dwell on the outburst. Instead, assure your toddler of your love with a warm hug.
*Humor can work wonders during tantrum moments. For a mild tantrum, try defusing the situation with humor. Just be careful with that so your child doesn’t think you are making fun of him or her.
