How to Deal With a Tantrum

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By mamadawn
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How to deal with the nightmare that is a tantrum.

Whether at the supermarket, or the clothing store or even at home or at the park, here is a calm approach to dealing with a toddler tantrum.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Patience
Understanding
Sometimes ear plugs

Step 1

Stay calm. Stand back. Do not react.
Step 2

Try to figure out what is the root of the reaction. A tantrum is a reaction in your toddler, either to physical stimuli or an emotional one. Once you figure out what is causing the distress you can better deal with it.
Step 3

If your toddler is physically tired, or hungry or thirsty try to offer some food or water. I have found that nine times out of ten the tantrum is caused by hunger. If no food is around, tell them that you will be eating as soon as you can, as long as they can help you by finishing whatever it is you are trying to, whether it be shopping or household chores. They like to feel big and help. Sometimes this is a good distraction.
Step 4

Get down on their level. Sometimes they feel small and like nobody is listening. When you get down on their level and look them in the eye this can help calm them down when they realize they have your attention.
Step 5

Speak quietly and calmly and validate their feelings. Tell them you understand that you have been at the store a very long time, or that they are hungry or very tired, and tell them it is ok to have these feelings.
Step 6

Usually this is when they calm down and realize how they have been acting, and you can hug them and then take care of whatever needs they have at the moment. If it is over a toy, mention a toy that they have at home that you will play with when they get there. If the tantrum is over something they want at the store, it is best not to give in to them when they behave this way. Tell them they can have it the next time you visit the store if they are helpful.
Step 7

Try to listen to your toddler, and anticipate their emotions. Listen to them, and let them know that you understand what they are trying to say. With such a limited vocabulary, and still trying to figure out these things that we call emotions, it can be a very trying time for your toddler. But the main thing is to remain calm and patient, and try not to react to their shrieking outbursts of emotion. When they realize they will get no reaction, they will most likely stick to other means of communication. After all, throwing a tantrum is not an easy feat.