What Kind of Things Cause Frustration in a Toddler?
A toddler is a miniature explorer who wants nothing more than to search for adventure and try his hand at just about anything -- even though he typically has not developed the skills needed to safely and effectively reach his goals, explains HealthyChildren.org. When a parent or other adult intervenes in a tot's potentially dangerous investigations and discoveries, the toddler can become overwhelmingly frustrated.
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Developmental Significance
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The majority of toddlers have yet to master the ability to move about as quickly as they'd like. Watching an older sibling run around with ease can make it blatantly clear to the tot that he has limited mobility and this can make him feel frustrated. The inability to effectively express his needs combined with a lack of maturity to manage his feelings can also make him act out as a result, explains Mayo Clinic emeritus consultant, Jay L. Hoecker, M.D. To deal with his frustration, a toddler may throw a temper tantrum and start stomping, biting, hitting and kicking.
Desire For Autonomy
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A toddler desperately wants to be independent and accomplish tasks without your help even though he still needs it. A power struggle may ensue when a tot insists that he can do something himself, for example, setting the microwave to warm his oatmeal. When he can’t figure out how to work the overwhelming metal contraption, he may become frustrated and throw a tantrum when he realizes he needs your help after all. A toddler may also express his frustration by crying and screaming when he tries hard to tie his shoes by himself but cannot do it.
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Fluctuations in Frustration
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Several factors, including a tot's basic temperament, can influence whether a frustrating experience will lead to an emotional outburst. A toddler who is tired or hungry or simply wants attention may become easily frustrated and more prone to misbehaving. A toddler may also be more likely to throw a fit if his parent has a strong reaction when he acts out or too easily caves in when he demands something, notes WebMD.
Considerations
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Your toddler's short attention span can work in your favor when you are trying to prevent a tantrum. For example, if he insists on wearing shorts outside when it's the dead of winter, steer him away from the closet or dresser for a few minutes and take him to another room and tell him his awaiting teddy bear needs a hug. Once your toddler has mastered basic language skills to express his wants and needs, which usually happens after age 3, frustration and subsequent tantrums should taper off, explains HealthyChildren.org.
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