Averting tantrums
If your child regularly throws
tantrums at the same time of day, or in the same kind of situation, try to find
ways of heading off the tantrum before it occurs…
Diverting attention
Diverting your child’s
attention at the crucial time can work wonders – try to find something that
will capture their attention until the moment has passed, such as a simple game
or activity. Keeping a child busy with something, however trivial, will give
them less time to plan and execute their tantrum. Even a slight change of scene
may head off the brewing storm – go outside, or even into a different room.
Preventing tiredness and hunger
These are often contributing
factors, so having a supply of healthy snacks to keep them going, say, during
an afternoon shopping trip, may help avoid a tantrum. Similarly, try avoiding
shopping trips when your toddler is likely to be tired – if they are still
napping in the afternoon, try going after their nap, or first thing in the
morning, when they are likely to be awake and interested in what’s going on
around them, rather than frustrated and bothered by it.
Giving your child some choice and responsibility
One of the prime triggers for a
toddler tantrum is a feeling that they are powerless to make their own choices.
For example, a toddler may regularly rebel against getting dressed in the
morning. If you usually choose their clothes and have a battle getting them
into them, try giving them a choice instead – narrow it down (don’t give them
the entire closet to choose from!) but let them feel that they are making the
final decision. If your child is a nightmare to take shopping, try getting them
to help you choose some of your purchases, or unpack the cart. Letting your
child have a little say in what is going on can often mean far fewer tantrums.
The information in this feature is intended for
educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the
health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a
doctor or other healthcare professional.