How to Deal with Tantrums
Perhaps it happens at a certain time of day, maybe it will erupt when your child is refused something he wants. A tantrum is not pleasant for either the child or the parent, and some children take it so far that they make themselves sick. If you are having trouble dealing with a screaming, kicking, vomiting toddler who won’t take no for an answer, there are some things you can do to minimize the trauma for both of you.
Anticipate When the Tantrum will Occur
If you know your child begins to turn ugly around dinner or bed time and he usually throws tantrums around certain times of the day, learn to know the signs and triggers that your little one is going into full blown attack mode. You might want to try a routine that will calm your child at least a half hour before the witching hour. Give him a warm bath and have special reading time together before tucking him in. If the tantrum happens around dinner, give your little one something to do to help your prepare dinner. If your child has melt downs when you take them to certain stores, leave your child at home and avoid the hassle all together.
Find a Distraction
Some toddlers can be easily distracted from beginning a tantrum and others turn a blind eye to whatever you are suggesting and offering. If you see an episode is about to start, use everything in your arsenal to try and avoid it. Turn on the music and begin to sing or dance, pull out a favorite toy. It isn’t a foolproof plan that a distraction will work, but it is certainly worth a try, and you may be pleasantly surprised how well it can take your child’s mind away from a full blown temper tantrum.
Filed under: Discipline
