Limited understanding and limited verbal ability + frustration = tantrums

• Young children are capable of feeling anger but unable to understand what is really happening. This, plus limited verbal ability and a dose of frustration, and a child's behavior is out of control. They need an adult to help them gain control.

• Parent should first work toward preventing the child from hurting themselves or others.

• Don't give in...try to remain calm... don't try to reason with the child until the child has calmed down.

• When possible try to ignore the tantrum.

• Pick up the child calmly; quietly let the child know that you are not pleased with the behavior, and put the child in his/her room, telling the child they must stay there until they feel better.

• If it is unsafe or you can't remove yourself from the situation, tell the child you will stay there with them until they feel better. Then attempt to mentally remove yourself from the situation.

• Remain calm, this is easier said than done, shaking, spanking or screaming at the child brings the parent down to the child's level.

• Don't try to reason with a child having a tantrum.

• After the tantrum has subsided offer comfort.

In public focus on the child's needs, not stranger's opinions.

• Tantrums can not be prevented, all children experience this stage and must pass through this stage in order to learn how to handle their emotions.

• Learn to anticipate tantrums and try to head them off. For example: if you know dinner is going to be late, offer the child a snack; if the child has had an exciting afternoon, a bath before supper may relax them; if a child has difficulty changing activities, provide a warning and mention the appeal of what comes next -- "Let's pick out a book to read" appeals than let's get ready for bed now.

• If the child has tested your patience most of the day, try to limit negative responses to those situations that are the most important.

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If you are interested in more information please call 401.277.5255.