One thing almost all parents agree on is that toddlers can be incredibly difficult. Toddlers, who are often characterized as being between the ages of one and three, are reaching important developmental milestones frequently, which is both exhilarating and draining. At this age, babies begin to experience emotions other than hunger and a need to be changed. Additionally, they’re not yet at a place where they can effectively process those emotions.
Additionally, a 3-year-old is always striving to establish their independence, as any parent who has been waiting impatiently while their child painstakingly tries to put on their shoes repeatedly will attest to.
When those intense feelings strike, or when they are unable to accomplish the task they so badly desire on their own, or when they are unable to effectively express their needs? The feared tantrum then occurs.
Thankfully, we can assist you. Here are some helpful strategies to help you deal with your toddler’s most recent tantrum, such as when they requested a red lunch plate but received a green one instead.
Walk Away
Does your kid seem to be crying uncontrollably and you are unable to determine why? It’s acceptable to take a moment to gather oneself in some circumstances. It’s acceptable to sneak into the restroom, shut the door, or step out onto the porch for a short while to catch your breath, provided that they are secure and that you can still hear them and reach them if they need you.
Offer to Help
There is a middle ground, but trying to solve a toddler’s problem is sometimes a prescription for an even worse breakdown. A excellent method to preserve their independence and address the issue that caused the breakdown is to offer to help them with whatever they’re having trouble with. If they say no, don’t push the matter; instead, let them come to a reasonable conclusion on their own.
Make Them Feel Heard
One of the most important things you can do to prevent tantrums is to make sure you listen. The great majority of tantrums in toddlers are caused by communication difficulties. Find out why they’re upset, have a conversation with them about it, and provide consolation. Tell them you’re paying attention, that you’re concerned about their feelings, and that you’re interested in learning more about the reasons behind their difficulties.
Long-term trust can be developed by listening to them and treating them as though their thoughts and feelings are important, even if you are unable to resolve the issue.
Make sure they understand that you love them no matter what and that it’s acceptable to experience such strong emotions.
Image: mklrnt through 123RF
Let Them Cry It Out
Toddlers frequently become agitated and sometimes don’t even know why they’re acting out. There are times when you simply must allow those emotions to pass.
Tell them calmly that they are secure and that you will speak to them after they have finished yelling if you have attempted to talk to them and resolve the issue but the tantrum persists. Then leave them to cry it out on their own. This strategy may help the tantrum end sooner by letting them know they won’t receive attention for misbehaving.
Don t Give In
When they don’t get what they want, toddlers frequently have tantrums. Giving in to their cries and screams is ineffective because it sends the message that you will give in to their bad behavior.
Ultimately, keep in mind that the tantrum phase will end. You will overcome it if you concentrate on all the happy times in between.
