You may have visited a friend’s house recently only to find their toddler frantically running around the dining room set in a tantrum. At that very site, you probably thought to yourself that this would never be your child. Reality check: tantrums are a normal part of the growing process. It is a way that toddlers express their frustrations or stresses.

Tantrums are a release of a toddler’s frustrations of a stressful, or buildup of stressful, situations. Stressful in a toddler’s case can be: not getting the snack when they want it, or a broken toy or more attention given to a brother or sister by the main caretaker. Tantrums shouldn’t be taken personally, because they are usually an expression of frustration. The next time your toddler pulls the king quilt from your bed in a rage, try to put his/her actions in perspective.

As your toddler grows, he/she will need challenges in order for their mind to develop. However, sometimes challenges can turn into frustrations. Try to be present when your toddler is tackling a tough problem. For instance, you can help your toddler with the game, puzzle or toy if you see that he/she is struggling to hard.

Prevent marathons circling round dining room sets by your toddler when throwing a tantrum by learning what actually triggers these fetes. Notice when he/she is most likely to throw one. Is it when they are tired? Is it when you are in the kitchen preoccupied, or when you are out on a long shopping trip? Notice a trend, if there is one.

When you know what causes a tantrum you can work to prevent it. For example, if you find that whenever you are in the grocery store for too long your child becomes tired and overwhelmed. As a result, a tantrum occurs. Plan for shorter trips, and keep healthy snacks on hand.

Keep track of what your toddler eats. Too often, sweets can heighten blood sugar levels and you will have to deal with mood swings as a result. Avoid caffeine in your child because this can have an affect that lasts for hours.

Listen to your toddler! Imagine trying to express yourself to someone important in your life, but they are preoccupied or do not give you the time to listen to what you have to say. As an adult, you would probably get frustrated as well. So listen to your toddler, express your feelings of empathy and make him/her feel heard. This can help release frustrations and prevent tantrums.

Filed under: Juvenile Nonfiction by admin
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