Anyone who is a parent can tell you about a tantrum that almost did them in. Here, we tell you how to take the bite out of your child's tantrum.
1. Keep your head about you. Even if you feel like you are about to come unglued, never...ever let your child know. The goal is to make yourself calm, cool and collected when you least feel like it.
2. Do NOT engage with your child when she is in the middle of her meltdown. Say nothing more than, "When you are calm I will talk with you."
3. Remember that giving your child attention when she is acting out, even if it is negative, will encourage more of the same behavior. Stay nearby to make sure your child does not hurt herself, but do something inside your head to help ignore the tantrum. (Go over your grocery list, plan your menu for the week, imagine yourself on a tropical island...whatever!)
4. Be sure to give your child lots of hugs and attention when she is making good choices and behaving in ways you desire. Make sure your child knows you love her ALL of the time!
Comments
That's great advice.
I used to tell my kids that I don't speak whinese and I can't understand them until they speak to me calmly.
Thanks for this post.
Really great advice, and I agree with everything you said here. My daughter (now five) inherited an INCREDIBLY firey temper. She could throw temper tantrums like nothing I'd ever seen before. Absolutely, the most important things are to stay calm, and to not react in any way to the behavior. When she was younger, she would be put in her room and wouldn't be allowed out until she calmed down. As she got older, she would put herself into her room when she felt herself verging on a fit. For someone with that type of personality, I think its important to teach her coping skills like that - how to deal with anger on her own. Attempting to stifle it was - aside from being futile - totally against her very nature! Great article :)
Mindy and Bailey,
Thanks so much for dropping by and leaving a comment. Thanks, even more, for all that love and nurturing that you pour into your little ones. YOU are making the world a better place!
I truly believe that kids really want to do the right thing...sometimes they just aren't up to the task. Sometimes it's a learning deficit...and sometimes they are just plain out of sorts. Our response has such a big impact on either welcoming more of the same behavior, or helping them find a better way!
Best...and happy parenting!
Wendy
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!