Nothing puts a damper on the day quite like your toddler throwing a temper tantrum that seems never ending. As a parent, you try countless techniques to calm your child to no avail. What causes these meltdowns and how can you avoid these temper tantrums?
Tantrums are usually just an expression of frustration over something that the toddler can’t physically do, or is not allowed to do. Combined with fatigue, discomfort, or hunger, tantrums can become almost explosive. Toddlers tend to incorporate screaming, hitting, and kicking into their meltdowns, but it is important to remember that they are not trying to hurt their parent. For ages 1 to 3, tantrums are a common and are a normal part of their development.
During your child’s second year of life, their language skills are beginning to develop. This is the time when tantrums are the most common and difficult because they are unable to verbally express what they want or how they feel. Never punish your toddler’s tantrum at this age, but that doesn’t mean you have to give them what they want.
Parents can prevent tantrums by:
= Giving your toddler positive attention by praising them when they do something good.
= Try giving your toddler some control over little things, like what flavor juice they want or when they want to brush their teeth. By asking them which option, they feel like they had more control over the decision.
= Keep objects that are off-limits out of site and out of reach.
Talk to your doctor if you have questions about what you are doing and what your child is doing, if the tantrums are more frequent and intense, or if your child often hurts himself or others during a tantrum.
At Rainbow Pediatrics, we can answer your questions about your toddler’s temper tantrums. Give us a call today at (850) 257-5524 to schedule your appointment.
