Read on for five unmissable tips which will help you prevent temper tantrums in your toddler.
Learn The Reasons Behind Outbursts
Tantrums happen when a toddler's desire to do a task is not matched by the reality of the situation. Either he is not yet able to do something (e.g. reach the table for his teddy for example), or he is not allowed to do it (e.g. have another biscuit).
Both types of outburst are a natural part of toddler development. Remember this, learn to expect them, and you will manage potential tantrums better.
Preventative Planning
Sit down and identify any regular times that your child has behavior problems. Can you avoid them? For instance: shops or stores, eating out and fizzy drinks (these can lead to impulsive behavior).
For now, Internet shopping, home cooking and sugar-free snacks (or whatever replacements you choose) should the order of the day. It won't be forever - don't forget that children of this age are developing quite quickly and may soon have no problem with these problem behavior triggers.
Limit Challenges
Avoid problems by watching out for games, toys or activities that are too complex for your child. When he does try out an unfamiliar task, be there to support him. Help out with a new puzzle, and guide him when he takes on new tasks like getting dressed.
Are You Creating Conflict?
As adults, we do sometimes create the conditions for an outburst. Take the example of little Alice, happily engrossed in her toys. She is suddenly bundled into her coat and told she must come now - her father had forgotten he has an important letter to post, and they only have 5 minutes to do it. Daddy would do well to offer some treat rather than tell Alice off for wanting to stay home, so avoiding a potential screaming fit.
Substitution
It's tough for young children to understand that they can't always get what they want. Compensating them with some other activity or item encourages the ability to compromise - but make sure the replacement is not wildly extravagant.
For example, a breadstick is a good substitute for the hungry child who has to wait another 20 minutes for their dinner.
Need to get home even though she is desperate to play some more in the paddling pool? An extra story later might just do the trick.
Avoiding toddler tantrums does require a bit of thought and planning at first - but once you see how successful these simple techniques are, they soon become second nature.
Learn The Reasons Behind Outbursts
Tantrums happen when a toddler's desire to do a task is not matched by the reality of the situation. Either he is not yet able to do something (e.g. reach the table for his teddy for example), or he is not allowed to do it (e.g. have another biscuit).
Both types of outburst are a natural part of toddler development. Remember this, learn to expect them, and you will manage potential tantrums better.
Preventative Planning
Sit down and identify any regular times that your child has behavior problems. Can you avoid them? For instance: shops or stores, eating out and fizzy drinks (these can lead to impulsive behavior).
For now, Internet shopping, home cooking and sugar-free snacks (or whatever replacements you choose) should the order of the day. It won't be forever - don't forget that children of this age are developing quite quickly and may soon have no problem with these problem behavior triggers.
Limit Challenges
Avoid problems by watching out for games, toys or activities that are too complex for your child. When he does try out an unfamiliar task, be there to support him. Help out with a new puzzle, and guide him when he takes on new tasks like getting dressed.
Are You Creating Conflict?
As adults, we do sometimes create the conditions for an outburst. Take the example of little Alice, happily engrossed in her toys. She is suddenly bundled into her coat and told she must come now - her father had forgotten he has an important letter to post, and they only have 5 minutes to do it. Daddy would do well to offer some treat rather than tell Alice off for wanting to stay home, so avoiding a potential screaming fit.
Substitution
It's tough for young children to understand that they can't always get what they want. Compensating them with some other activity or item encourages the ability to compromise - but make sure the replacement is not wildly extravagant.
For example, a breadstick is a good substitute for the hungry child who has to wait another 20 minutes for their dinner.
Need to get home even though she is desperate to play some more in the paddling pool? An extra story later might just do the trick.
Avoiding toddler tantrums does require a bit of thought and planning at first - but once you see how successful these simple techniques are, they soon become second nature.
About the Author:
Harriet Morris is a mother of two and has a decade's experience teaching children with emotional and behavioural problems. Her website www.toddler-ideas.com is full of down-to-earth advice and activity resources for raising a toddler. Go to toddler tantrums for more ideas on understanding and coping with toddler tantrums.
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