Kids between 1 to 4 years old are susceptible to throwing tantrums for different reasons. They can be frustrated because of not being able to do or get what they want, not being paid enough attention, or simply because they are in a bad mood or are uncomfortable.
While tantrums are normal, it doesn’t mean that the parents should not take steps to correct such behavior and prevent another episode from happening. Here are some things I’ve learned when dealing with a toddler’s tantrums:
You can avoid tantrums when you know what triggers them
. There’s always a reason why kids throw a fit. They could get angry because they’re trying to do and learn something, but kept failing, or maybe because they thought they’re being ignored. Sometimes, they’re just irritated because they’re tired or hungry. If the parent would pay close attention to their kids and keep them in a pleasant mood (making sure they are fed and well-rested), then tantrum episodes can be prevented.
It is best to ignore the episodes
The more attention you give to them (whether you show irritation, or yell or hurt them physically), the more they would do it. Toddlers act that way to cause hurt, and when they see that you are affected, they would think that whatever they are doing is a good way to get your attention. It’s also for the same reason that parents should not give in to whatever they want.
Toddlers would not listen to you when they are having a fit
Much like us, as adults, when fail to be rational whenever we are mad, kids also can’t absorb anything when you try to reason or reprimand them while in the middle of tantrums. It’s best that you wait for them to calm down before trying to talk to them about their behavior.
They have to know what they did was not proper
Parents don’t always talk to children about these things because they think that kids won’t be able to grasp the lesson and would rather just impose penalties on them, but it is surprisingly a good way to make kids understand that they did something wrong. Sometimes, kids through tantrums because they don’t know how to express themselves best. In such cases, teach your kid to say “I’m angry” if they are frustrated, instead of kicking, screaming and crying to show their anger.
Raising a toddler demands patience; and during tantrum episodes, when your patience is being tested, you have to be even more patient. You have to pay attention to your own behavior because what you exhibit in front of your kid affects their own behavior and character.
Amy C. Fountain is a loving mom and an advocate of healthy family relationships. She is also the owner of Tabletop Fountains and Home Décor Art websites.
