Most toddlers show their annoyance by throwing tantrums. It is an outrage they express when they are upset or frustrated. Some kids show their outbursts often, while others have them rarely. Usually, parents find it exasperating to deal with their toddler’s tantrums. They could either be whining, crying, yelling, kicking, or hitting. Toddler tantrums are a normal part of a toddler’s development.
Why Do Toddlers Have Tantrums?
Toddlers can’t express their feelings or needs and it can be a frustrating experience for them. So they try to express their frustrations through a tantrum. As toddlers learn to communicate, tantrums tend to reduce. Kids often show their irritation when they are tired, hungry, or uncomfortable. Sometimes your toddler might insist on playing with a certain toy and its refusal can make him have a meltdown.
Also, as toddlers try to seek independence when kids realize that they can’t have everything they want, they begin to show tantrums.
The article provides some helpful tips on how to deal with toddler tantrums.
Ways To Prevent Tantrums In Toddlers
It is not easy to deal with toddler tantrums. Parents often end up yelling. Sometimes parents bribe or surrender to their toddlers’ demands. Sometimes none of these tactics work. While disciplining your child, it is important to concentrate on conduct rather than confronting your child emotionally.
Here are some ideas to prevent tantrums in your toddler:
Keep Calm
Remain calm while dealing with your toddler’s temper. Do not be irritated or enraged as you are helping your child to calm down. If you get worked up, they will sense the tension which might lead to further escalation. Similarly, if they see you calm it might help them to get over the tantrum sooner. Also, you will be in a better position to handle the situation effectively.
Refrain from screaming at your toddler when he is angry. Your child will start imitating you considering that you are his role model. Remain calm when your toddler is irritated while he eventually soothes down his temper.
Ignore the Tantrums
Your toddler may have tantrums for a variety of reasons. Occasionally, your child could be annoyed as he needs your comfort or he may be tired and just needs a short nap, Sometimes, your baby may be hungry and needs some snacks or at times, you may have to engage your baby with another activity. But if your toddler is throwing a tantrum for no reason, you simply have to ignore it.
You can simply walk out of the room and try to resist their undesirable behaviour. Or remain detached and impersonal to your toddler’s tantrums. Your child’s momentary outburst can hurt you. But he is only expressing his anger and frustrations. You should remember that your child’s tantrums are not directed at you in any way.
Divert Attention
You can divert your kid’s attention by engaging him in some activity. Short playful leisure interests like checking on a fish tank or playing with colourful ribbons. Acting out their favourite rhymes or singing a song are great ways to distract them. You can also remove the child from a particular environment to try to divert his attention.Taking him outside the room will give him the change as he will be soon occupied with new things.
Needs a Cuddle
Your toddler may be feeling insecure and that might be the reason for his erratic behaviour. A big firm hug will make your toddler realize that you care for them and may bring a halt to his tantrums. Sometimes they just need a few words of assurance that you are there for them. When going out in new places, try to comfort him if you feel his unease.
Calm Down His Hostile Behaviour
At times, your toddler could be showing bad behaviour and expressing his irritabilities by kicking, hitting, biting, or throwing things. You can stop your child immediately and make him understand that his erratic behaviour is not acceptable. You can give him a timeout and it is over explain to him why his behaviour is not acceptable. Also be consistent and interfere every time he does it.
You can also try to soothe your toddler’s behaviour by taking him away from the situation. His attention will be distracted from the situation, and he will feel relaxed.
Take Away Frustration
Your toddler could be infuriated as he is not able to tie his shoes or is unable to hold a big book or climb a ladder. You can do away with his frustration by helping your toddler accomplish simple tasks. Your little one’s desire is fulfilled, and his anger is gradually quelled down. Or if you are aware of his trigger points, try to consider them beforehand to prevent a tantrum.
Needs Enough Sleep
Your toddler could be throwing a tantrum as he did not get enough sleep. Make sure that your child is well-rested so that he becomes less hyper and disagreeable. Good sleep will help to reduce his tantrums.
Do not take him out during his nap time as it might make him more agitated. Try to plan activities when he is happy and rested.
Prepare Your Toddler While Going Out
You can never be prepared enough when you are going out with children. But carrying some important necessities can help you a lot.
If you are going shopping or on a long drive, make sure that your toddler is well-fed and well-rested. You can take his favourite toys or some colourful visual books with you. Or if he likes some snacks, you can carry them as well. So, in case he begins an outburst, you can engage him with his favourite activities.
Handle Tactfully in Public Places
If you are outside and your toddler is having an outburst, try to remain as calm as possible. Surrendering to your toddler’s demands will only embolden your child to repeat the tantrum the next time you go out.
If your child is throwing tantrums at public places, try to shift him to a safe place. It could be in a car or some quiet corner wherein you can soothe your toddler peacefully. Try to explain to your toddler your position. If your little one continues with his bad temper, put him in the car and straightaway head for home.
The above ideas will surely help parents to cope with toddler tantrums. Sometimes, a gentle stroke or touch can help your toddler to regain his calmness. Praise your child as soon as he comes out of his erratic behaviour. Hug your little one and assure him that he is always loved and cherished.
Please let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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