Tantrums
You’re out for the day, enjoying a lovely family outing, there are families everywhere with well behaved and mannered children and then...
You’re out for the day, enjoying a lovely family outing, there are families everywhere with well behaved and mannered children and then your little angel starts rolling around on the floor, screaming at the top of their voice, while throwing their hands in every direction – oh the joys of a toddler tantrum! The good news here is you are not alone, all those on looking families will have experienced their fair share and looks you are getting from other parents, they are understanding not judging as they too have been exactly where you are. A child’s tantrum is not nice to experience or witness but it is part of them growing up as they struggle to put into words what is wrong and so rather than discussing their issue, they do what they can and that is let you know they are not happy. A tantrum can happen for a number of reasons but can often be grouped into the following, your child is: Hungry Tired Feeling ignored Worried or anxious It can be difficult to control the situation, particular when you are out in public, but here are some tips on how to ease the situation. Try and understand what has caused the tantrum This is not always easy but quickly assess the situation and see what could be causing such upset with your child.
Could they be hungry or tired, has someone taken something off them they were playing with or were you giving another child attention which may have made them jealous? Distraction is key Children, particularly at a young age, have a short attention span and so sometimes a quick way to alleviate the problem is by distracting them.
Can you see something out of the window that they may like, or is there a toy nearby that they may enjoy, if you are inside, maybe take them outside and away from the situation to help calm them down, or inside if you are outside. Don’t give in If your child is upset because you said they couldn’t have something, then don’t give in as otherwise you are teaching them that the best way to get their own way is by having a tantrum.
Likewise, don’t just bribe them with sweets or other treats to get them to quieten down.
It can be really stressful when your child is having a tantrum, particularly when you have an audience, but try not to worry, you will have plenty of sympathy and understanding, particularly if they are parents themselves. Stay calm Easier said than done but try and take a deep breath and count to 10.
Your child is just expressing themselves in the way they know.
Try and keep calm as if you get angry it will only fuel their tantrum.
Try and talk to them calmly and help them through their feelings of frustration. You know best You know your child best and how to help them through their stress, there are a number of things that may help, including: A cuddle to help them feel calm again Finding something they can play with Ignoring their outburst Talking to them clearly but gentle at their level so they understand Children’s tantrums tend to be more common aged 18 months – 3 years when they can’t express in words as well how they feel.
If you think your child’s behaviour is of concern, then do speak to your health visitor or GP.
You’re out for the day, enjoying a lovely family outing, there are families everywhere with well behaved and mannered children and then...