How to Stop a Tantrum

Temper tantrums aren't fun at any age, but they're particularly disconcerting when they happen after the "terrible twos." So, if you have a four or five year old who's prone to lying on the floor and pitching a fit, you're no doubt desperate to find ways to stop her tantrums. With a little creativity and the ability to think like your child, you can squelch this negative behavior quickly and easily.

Instructions

1. Think on his level. The root of a temper tantrum lies in the quest for instant gratification. Your child wants something, and you won't let him have it. Sometimes this is due to a miscommunication. But if he doesn't use his words to tell you what he wants, a temper tantrum is likely to ensue. So run down the checklist of possibilities before deciding on a course of action.

2. Let her voice her concerns. There are many times in a child's life that things just aren't fair. She has to share her toys with others, he has to wait for dinner to be served or they have to go to bed at a certain time. If you see your child getting ready for a fit, stop a tantrum by asking her what the problem is. Let her tell you why she's angry, and let her know that you understand her frustrations and that they're valid. Then explain why things have to be the way they are.

3. Be consistent. The trick to stopping a tantrum is to do things a certain way on every single day. If your child isn't allowed to throw his cup at the dinner table, then he needs to be told so every single time he does it. He may not like the corrections, but eventually the message will get through.

4. Give her a place to vent her anger in a healthy way. We all get upset. When you see her about to boil over, give her a healthy way to get rid of that anger. Teach her how to punch a pillow, or go outside and play a game of soccer or whatever makes her feel better.

Tips & Warnings

• If your child is prone to temper tantrums often, it's advisable to speak to your family physician to rule out a medical or mental problem.