Struggling handling toddler tantrums? As a parent what I came to know is, it’s completely normal for our sweet little humans to have sudden anger outbursts or tantrums over something really silly, especially when they struggle to express their feelings or don’t get what they want!
Effectively Handling Toddler Tantrums:
The fact that the little one is generally sweet but gets upset and throws tantrums during conflicts suggests that she/he’s still learning how to handle emotions—and that’s okay! Afterall, tantrums are a normal part of child development.
Let’s Be Strict When:
Toddler Tantrum Turns into Aggressive Behavior – If she hits, bites, throws things, or screams excessively, she needs to know these are unacceptable and what are the healthy boundaries. Stay calm but firm and unemotional.
Say things like “We do not hit. Hitting hurts. Use gentle hands.” or ” Don’t hit or cry, just tell us that – I’m mad because I wanted that toy!”
If the episode continues, maybe take her out from the situation briefly to cool down. Designate a comfortable “calm-down corner” with a soft toy or book to help he calm down.
Screaming or throwing Tantrums to Get their Way – If she realizes screaming makes us give in, she’ll keep doing it. So acknowledge her feelings, but don’t change your decision. “I understand you’re sad, but we are not buying that toy today.” or “I know you’re angry, but we shouldn’t scream. You can tell me in a calm voice.”
Also, try not to yell back. If we react with frustration, it escalates the situation and doesn’t give a right message to the little one.
Trying to Test The Boundaries – If she refuses naptime, or to share, or keeps doing something unsafe, don’t give up, be consist with the routine or rules. “It’s bedtime now. I’ll read one story, then it’s time to sleep.”
But Be Lenient When:
The Kid is Just Overexcited Overwhelmed or Overtired – Sometimes, tantrums are due to hunger, tiredness, or overstimulation. In moments like those just comfort her, not discipline. Time to cuddle!
Your Kid is Going Through a Big Emotion – If she’s sad, scared, or frustrated but not being aggressive, help her feel the emotion rather than punishing. “It’s okay to feel mad. Let’s take deep breaths together.”
She’s Trying Ways to Express Herself – If she’s using words to say “I don’t want to share” or “I’m mad,” acknowledge her feelings while gently encouraging alternatives. “If you don’t want to share let’s take turns instead.”
While Handling Toddler Tantrums Stay in Control
Know it’s okay to ignore small tantrums. And remember to praise good behavior – Ignoring minor outbursts can help her learn that tantrums don’t get attention. Always praise when she handles emotions well. “You stayed calm even though you were upset. That was great!”
Give Your Toddler Power to Make Simple Choices – When she feels in control of small decisions, tantrums may reduce. “Do you want to wear the red shirt or the blue one?”
Teach Her The “Fix-It” Strategies – Encourage problem-solving instead of just reacting to anger. “You’re mad because your tower fell. How can we fix it?”
Should the toddler tantrums worry you?
Not necessarily! It is a very common thing! Toddlers have big emotions in little bodies. However, if:
- She gets angry very frequently over small things.
- Her tantrums last a very long time and are extremely intense (hurting herself or others).
- She struggles to calm down even with comfort or guidance.
Then, it might help to look into emotional regulation strategies or discuss it with her pediatrician.
We all are doing great, always learning to handle things the right way! Let us know if there’s a specific scenario you’d like advice on. 😊
#ParentingTips #ToddlerMeltdowns #PositiveParenting
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