As a mom of a young child nothing is more stress inducing then the temper tantrum. Temper tantrums can range from constant whining to laying on the floor kicking and screaming.
I can't tell you how many times before I had kids I witnessed a temper tantrum in a public place and wondered/judged the parents and their discipline methods. I remember thinking, "Why doesn't someone do something with that kid?"
Not ever being in that situation causes some unrealistic expectations. Don't worry, God always has the last laugh and I picture him laughing still today with some of the tantrums my kids threw.
Tantrums are a natural part of life for kids between the ages of one and four. Often times, they happen because a child is usually tired, hungry or don't get their way about something. It is how your child communicates that they are angry or upset.
I have seen this lately more and more with my daughter as the summer months progress. She is run until she can't go anymore and her body is just tired. Therefore, the tantrums continue to increase.
Here are some tips to deal with the behavior and alleviate the stressful situation. If a child is not in danger of hurting himself, you should do the following:
Ignore the behavior
If you give attention to your child during this outburst, chances are the behavior will increase. Do not try to reason at this time. Wait until they are calmer. If they are lacking the skills to communicate effectively which is what led to the tantrum in the first place, why do you feel talking and reasoning with the child is an option. Do not yell, it will only make the situation worse.
Do not give in
If you give in, it will teach the child that all they have to do is throw a fit to get their way. Believe me, you do not want this to happen. It will be never ending.
Leave the room, if you can
Obviously you can not leave your child in a store, restaurant or in the street. Unfortunately, more kids have tantrums in public because they know the effect it will have on you. You can remove the child from the situation. I have left my basket in the middle of Wal-Mart before and took my kid to the car. Remove yourself if you are able from the tantrum. This will help you ignore the behavior and hopefully end the tantrum sooner than later. If your child was in the middle of playing, take him away from the other children. Do not let him play until he/she has calmed down and the two of you have talked about his/her actions.
Watch for opportunities to praise
When your child is in public or playing with others, look for behaviors to praise. Encourage him or her by asking him to be your "big helper" in the store. Try to alleviate the triggers that typically would set your child off and then encourage the good behavior.
These are just a few ways to deal with the tantrum. Try to remind yourself of your love for your child and the love you share during the tantrum. Be patient and give hugs freely.
