How to Control Your Toddler’s Temper Tantrums

Temper tantrum could be anything from screaming, crying relentlessly to breath holding and hitting. This is a common phenomenon in kids aged between 1 to 3 years of age. Tantrums, again vary, and are child-specific. There might be a child who regularly experiences tantrums, while others his age might have one rarely. As a parent, it is important for you to understand that tantrums should not be taken negatively. Children at this age are just beginning to enjoy their independence and are new to expressing themselves verbally, therefore they do not exercise inhibitions while expressing themselves vocally unlike adults.

Children go through moments where it is frustrating for them and thus they vent it out through tantrums, much like adults do by clenching their fists and expressing their anger in a controlled manner. The underlying reasons for a tantrum are very simple- it is either discomfort, hunger, fatigue or inability to possess what they want. Usually tantrums are more common when a child turns two and as the child starts developing language skills, you will discover that the tantrums too disappear. Here are a few tips to deal with temper tantrums:

Ensure That the Reason for the Tantrum is Not Lack of Attention

There are times that a child would raise a tantrum owing to lack of attention, to invite negative attention. Ensure that you do not encourage that behaviour.

Fulfil Their Need for Freedom

Toddlers enjoy their newfound independence and instead of giving them the chance of saying ‘no’ offer them choices.

Keep Their Objects of Desire Out of Reach

Objects usually attract toddlers and this leads to tantrums, so keep such things out of reach and out of sight.

Distract Your Child If You Feel the Frustration Is Coming Through

Kids have a short attention span, so make the most of it by switching activities or finding replacements to a broken toy to avoid the frustration from seeping through.

Find Out Whether the Tantrum is Valid or Not

At times, the request of a toddler can be valid and your straight refusal can create a huge temper tantrum. Choose your words wisely and find out whether it is feasible to agree or not.

Do Not Hit or Spank

Physical punishment leads to negative behaviour issues over time, so do not vent your frustration out on your little one. Keep your cool and try to find a better solution.