It is inevitable – if you have a toddler, you have experienced a tantrum. Tantrums can be frustrating, embarrassing, and heart wrenching when you do not know how to help your little preschooler. You may not be able to completely avoid tantrums, but the way in which you handle them can make them a bit less stressful on both you and your preschooler.
Remain Calm
Becoming upset and raising your voice is not helpful to your preschooler while he is in the middle of a tantrum. Instead, steady yourself by taking deep breaths before interacting with your child. Continue to take deep, slow breaths while talking with your child and he will eventually match your breathing and calm down.
React Appropriately
Determine why the tantrum may be occurring. Has it been a few hours since your little one had a meal? She may be hangry! If your child is melting down due to a physical need, such as hunger or tiredness, stop and tend to her needs. If she is melting down because she wants the Barbie at the store and you said “no,” breathe with her to help her find her calm, acknowledge why she is upset, and calmly explain why she is not getting the Barbie. Do your best not to give in to a tantrum or your little one will decide tantrums are the way to get what she wants.
Let Go
Preschoolers want to be independent, which sometimes leads to tantrums. It can be difficult for a child to always have someone else making all his decisions and doing everything for him. Let go of some of the control and let him make his own decisions. Give him choices you can live with to shape his choices. For example, instead of asking, “What do you want for lunch?” ask “Do you want a turkey sandwich or mac and cheese for lunch?”.
Why
Part of dealing with a tantrum is to understand why they happen and that they are a normal part of child development. KidsHealth explains why children have tantrums and provides more tips on how to handle them.
If you enjoyed this blog, please take a look at our school’s blog page. There you will find blogs on a wide variety of topics that we believe will be beneficial to you and your family.
Want to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Waterford Lakes located in Orlando, Florida? Our mission is to provide secure, nurturing, and educational environments for children ages 6 weeks – 12 years. We help children to bloom into responsible, considerate, and contributing members of society. For more information, give us a call or stop by for a tour! We’d love to get to know you and your family.