Page 7 - Demo

Taming TantrumsTantrums are a normal part of being a toddler. They're still learning how to control and express their emotions -that's their job. Your job is to teach them how to express their feelings in acceptable ways. Here are some tips tohelp:Preventing A Tantrum:%u2022 For a week or so, keep a record of the times and reasons for their tantrums. Then try to avoid these situations.%u2022 Daily movement is important for both of you. Run in the yard, go for a walk, or visit a park.%u2022 Toddlers have small stomachs and need nutritious snacks between meals.%u2022 Say %u201cno%u201d less often by child-proofing your home and setting clear and consistent limits.%u2022 When possible, give early warnings of transition times. For example, \way our toysand go to the store.\%u2022 Give your toddler options you approve of and limit them to two. For example, \tore now.Do you want to wear your blue coat or your red sweater?\During A Tantrum:1. Stay calm and speak softly. This will show your toddler that you are in control and will help them to calm down.Take a deep breath and count to 10.2. Move your toddler who is out of control to a safe place so they can%u2019t get hurt, if necessary.3. A gentle touch or staying nearby may help calm and dissolve anger in both of you. Remember this may not workfor all toddlers.4. Most toddlers are not able to listen to reason while in the middle of a tantrum. You may need to wait until thestorm has passed before you can talk to them.After A Tantrum:1. Offer sincere praise, %u201cYou did a good job calming yourself down%u201d. Do not punish. They didn%u2019t do anything wrong.2. Give your toddler a hug and comfort them. Say %u201cI love you%u201d and sit quietly with them until they are ready tomove on.3. Don%u2019t encourage future tantrums by giving in to whatever triggered the tantrum in the first place (e.g., candy atthe checkout)