: How to Deal with Temper Tantrums
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(529 Words)
Tamper tantrums are an unfortunate entity that most parents have to deal with at one time or another. Some may have to withstand these tumultuous forces of nature on a daily basis, or even hourly in some cases. So how do you deal with it? These are different things you can do – and things you should not do. Consider the following tips.
Stay calm
The first step to dealing successfully with a temper tantrum is to stay calm. Getting yourself worked up has no benefit but can instead be harmful. First oftentimes the reason that the child produces the temper tantrum in the first place is because they want attention. Even if you getting worked up and screaming is so-called bad attention, it is still attention. Sometimes the children actually want to get you into this “tizzied” state. Also, if you get worked up then there is a good chance that the child will just get further worked up. You may end up saying or doing something that you regret, and it can start a bad habit. Remember that this is a child who does not have control over himself or herself as you do. You are an adult and should act like one by staying in control.
Ignore it
Some people choose to ignore temper tantrums, and this can be effective in some cases. As previously mentioned, some children throw temper tantrums to get attention. Others see it as a way of getting what they want. Perhaps they asked for a cookie and when you said no they threw the temper tantrum. It is VERY important not to give in. It can be tempting to hand them that cookie and put an end to the screeching and whining. By doing this you will just be promoting more temper tantrums and showing your child that he or she has the power. They will learn that temper tantrums are an effective way of getting what they want, and this of course is the last thing that you want.
Distract them
Some people try to distract their child when they are in a temper tantrum. You can try to lead them to a quiet or productive activity such as an educational game, a puzzle or reading to them. You can also talk to them about anger and how to deal with it effectively instead of getting so worked up. You can tell them to count to ten slowly and breathe deeply when they feel like it is about to happen.
Find out and address any hidden causes
Sometimes temper tantrums are a result of other stressors that the children are facing and by addressing those you can address the temper tantrum. Perhaps the child is jealous of the time you are spending with a sibling and spending more time with him or her can help. You can investigate to see if these are the causes.
There are many sources for additional help in combating temper tantrums. There are many books, which you can find at large booksellers and on the Internet. If the problem is serious you could contact a professional. Consider the above tips to aid you in this situation.
Updated On: 07/30/2010 Published On: 07/30/2010 Article ViewerClose
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