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5 ways to manage temper tantrums in kids
Well, as impossible as it seems, there are ways to control temper tantrums in kids – whether the child demands toys or is a fussy eater! Here are five tried and tested ways parents can adopt to ensure that a temper tantrum minimises quickly.
1. Stay calm and patient
This may seem impossible, but it’s actually quite effective. “Children often throw tantrums to get a reaction, so staying calm can help de-escalate the situation. Take deep breaths, count to ten, or step out of the room briefly if needed to collect yourself,” says Dr Noorani.
2. Learn to anticipate triggers
Prevention is always better than cure, especially in this case! Pay attention to what tends to trigger tantrums in your child. Is it hunger, tiredness, frustration, or a particular environment? By identifying these triggers, you can proactively address them. For example, ensure your child has regular meals and naps, and avoid situations that you know may lead to tantrums.
3. Use positive reinforcement
“You got this!”, “great job”. These are affirmations that work wonders with kids. Reinforce the good behaviour with positive attention and praise. But how does this fit into a temper tantrum? Dr Noorani says that when your child behaves well or calms down after a tantrum, offer praise and affection. This helps teach them that positive behaviour is more likely to get attention than tantrums.
4. Establish clear boundaries and expectations
Set your limits! Set clear and consistent rules for your child’s behaviour, but make sure these are in tandem with their age. Be clear, use simple language, but also offer choices when possible. This gives them a sense of control.
5. Redirect and distract
When you sense a tantrum brewing, try to redirect your child’s attention to something else. Offer them a different toy, activity, or engage them in conversation about something they enjoy. Distraction can be an effective tool for defusing tantrums before they escalate, says Dr Noorani.
