How to Stop Children From Screaming
When a child begins screaming, demanding to have his way, it's hard to believe this is the same adorable little being that fills your heart with such joy. Your first instinct is to scream louder but this is often counterproductive. All that results is a howling match, or you giving in to the demand "just to have some calm." Neither of these actions is advisable, says Robert G. Harrington, Professor at the Kansas University School of Education. Although there are a few ways to actually handle a temper tantrum, you are guaranteed better results if you inculcate your child with a system of acceptable behavior.
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Instructions
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Stand close to your child so you are face-to-face with him. Speak in a calm, controlled voice, telling him to stop screaming. Say you are willing to discuss whatever he is upset about but only if he stops shouting. With children who are too young to understand, indicate you want silence by placing your index finger on his mouth. Never scream back at the child.
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Point out a specific place and ask your child to sit there in silence for a few minutes to calm down. Tell her to come to you when she is ready to speak politely. If your child resists, use gentle pressure to guide her to the seat and hold her down in place. Remain standing by her silently until she relaxes.
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Get your child to a place with some privacy if he begins screaming in a public place such as the supermarket. With an older child, say "I don't like the way you are talking and I won't listen unless you speak nicely," and walk away from that spot. Never give in to a screaming child for fear of what spectators will think.
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Pay attention to your child and praise her when she displays good behavior. Be specific in complimenting your child for doing the right thing. For example, when your daughter shares her toy with a friend, say "Wow! It's good the way you shared your toy with Sandra. I'm so proud of you."
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Explain to your child the behavior you expect from him. Do this at a time when he is in a good mood and receptive to what you say. Tell him exactly how you will respond if he does scream, and follow up on that when such a scene plays out. Repeat this a few times without giving in and your child will gradually accept there is no point screaming.
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Ensure your child eats at the right times, drinks sufficient liquids and gets adequate rest and sleep. Children have a tendency to keep going on until they are ready to drop from exhaustion and this may set off a screaming incident.
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Stop screaming at your child when you are under stress. Most children learn to scream by observing their parents' behavior. The calmer you act in your interactions with the family, the better a role model you will be for your children.
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Tips & Warnings
Mentally empathize with your child's frustration -- it isn't easy being a kid and having to always do as a teacher, a parent or an older sibling says.
