Toddler Tantrums and How to Handle Them

Temper tantrums can cause you to question your parenting approach and strategy. Here, you’re going to find out the causes of toddler tantrums and how you can handle them.

It might be difficult to maintain emotional equilibrium when dealing with a child who is having a meltdown. 

Meltdowns are unpleasant and nasty, but they are a part of being a child. Under the age of four, children have not yet learned how to deal with life’s difficulties. Instead, they just let it all go.

Tantrums are triggered by what?

The root cause of every tantrum is the same: a lack of fulfillment. When a kid is between the ages of one and two, temper tantrums are frequently the result of an inability to express a basic need, such as the need for more milk, a diaper change, or that toy over there. 

They throw a fit as soon as they don’t get what they want. Temper tantrums become more of a power struggle for older children.

Your child may be able to speak words by the time they enter preschool, but that doesn’t mean their temper tantrums are ended. A simple dispute can easily escalate into a full-blown tantrum for your child, who is still learning how to control their emotions. 

Needing your assistance can be upsetting for your kid if they emphasize their increasing sense of self-reliance. When they realize they can’t complete a difficult chore alone, like tying their shoes, they may lose their cool. A wailing, hysterical infant could be the result.

You should remember that temper tantrums are a normal part of growing up for children and do not indicate poor parenting. 

Children’s tantrums teach them to manage their unpleasant feelings. Children can sometimes become overwhelmed by their newfound independence to the point of meltdown.

Toddler Tantrums: What to Do About Them

When dealing with a tantruming toddler, experts agree that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Bribing, begging, and giving in are among the “don’t” list items, but short-term fixes like these are also bad ideas. The more you give in, the more likely the tantrum will recur.

In contrast, when children understand that “no” means “no” and parents respond calmly and consistently when their children begin to act out, everyone feels more in control. As a parent, you mustn’t emotionally attack your child when punishing.

1. Try ignoring it for a while.

Unless your child is endangering herself or others, the best course is to ignore a tantrum. 

You won’t be reinforcing their bad behavior if you don’t give them your full attention. Set a timer for a few minutes and leave the room to ensure they’re okay.

2. Respond swiftly to aggressive behavior.

Is your child yelling, punching, kicking, biting, or hurling things during a tantrum? Stop them and get them out of the situation as soon as possible. To make it abundantly obvious that harming others is not acceptable. 

If required, remove a privilege or place them in a time-out. The more you use time-outs, the less effective they become.

3. Avoid shouting at each other.

Keep in mind that you are your child’s role model when it comes to controlling your emotions. If you scream at your child, they’ll eventually raise their voice to match yours because they want to be heard. Being aware of their emotions can help you remain calm.

4. It’s okay for your child to feel upset.

There are times when a child needs to vent their frustrations. So go ahead and let him have it! This method is one that I strongly support since it teaches youngsters how to express themselves constructively when they are upset. They can express their emotions, regroup, and restore self-control without getting into a fight with you.

5. Give in to the child’s whims when they throw a fit (within reason).

This can be an effective tactic on occasion. In order to ensure a pleasant vehicle ride for your child, it may be necessary to allow them to request to listen to the same tape over and over again.

6. Make use of simple, concise instructions.

Young children, in general, are easily swayed. Short, simple commands that pique a toddler’s interest and keep him from throwing a tantrum effectively reduce tantrums. As specific as possible is preferable.

7. Give them a good hug.

Even though you may not want to do it when your child is experiencing a meltdown, doing so can actually help her calm down. The kind of hug I’m talking about isn’t a soft one but a forceful one. 

Again, you’d be engaging in a pointless war of wills if you said anything. Even if you disagree with your child’s actions, a hug can make them feel safe and loved.

8. Assist in alleviating frustration.

Can’t your toddler put on their shoes and scream and cry? If you can help them perfect the art, they will feel accomplished. 

It’s important to let children know that you understand that they may want to climb a ladder or other high objects for their own safety, but that doesn’t mean they can do it.

9. A public tantrum should be avoided at all costs.

If your child goes ahead and throws a fit in public, quietly pick them up and take them someplace safe. Go to the bathroom with them in your car or a public restroom.

In a quieter location, explain your stance and try to ignore the tantrum until it ends. A child’s mood can be improved just by holding or petting them. Keep driving home if your child continues.