Dealing with Tantrums

By K. Decker

Everyone knows how embarrassing a tantrum can be - there is nothing like a public meltdown. The most important thing to do is stay calm. When you lose it your child's tantrum will worsen. Even though your child is having a full blown kicking and screaming tantrum, you still have the ability to control the situation and maybe even the peace.

Here are a few tips to help avoid a tantrum:

Children are more likely to exhibit this behavior when they are overly tired or hungry. Before you head out for that all day shopping spree, make sure that your child got plenty of sleep the night before. Make sure he gets lunch at his scheduled time, this will prevent a tantrum from being too hungry. Pack lots of drinks and snacks to tide him over until dinner time. If possible take a break for nap time, especially if he is used to taking naps everyday.

Allow extra time for him to get ready for the day, so he doesn't feel rushed all day long. Let him do things on his own, like getting in and out of the car. Letting him be independent and not rushing will help. When a child feels frustrated it brings on the tantrums. So if you go to the mall and you will pass the candy store and you don't have time to stop in, maybe you should re-think the mall trip. Or plan ahead and allow the extra time to do some of the things that he will really want to do. This way you already know the reactions and hopefully avoiding the tantrum all together. If you do encounter a tantrum while out and about, sometimes it is best to just leave. Most kids love to shop and the thought of leaving might be enough to straighten him up.

Now if the child is having a tantrum at home, it may be best to just walk away. Make sure he can't hurt himself, anything or anyone else. After he has calmed down talk about what has happened and why. Give your child a big hug and let's move on!

If cookies or candy are a tantrum starter, then make sure it is out of sight and out of mind. This way if that special treat is only for after dinner it won't be a constant thought out on the cabinet. This is a good way to avoid a tantrum all together.

When your child is having a tantrum, he is out of control. This can be scary. Remember that your child's tantrum is nobody's business but yours. Just because your child has a tantrum in public doesn't mean you are a bad parent. If you handle the situation the same every time, the child will come to expect the consequences of his actions.

A lot of times a tantrum is out of needing more attention. Stop what you are doing and take the extra time to help your child control his feelings and emotions. Many times they just need hugs or need to be held for a minute. If hugging makes it worse give him space until he cools off.

Just love your child like no one else can! Good Luck!

This information is only an educational aid in helping deal with tantrums. This advice should not be a substitute for medical attention. Please seek medical advice before starting any new treatment.

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Dealing with Tantrums