Yikes - Toddler Temper Tantrum

Two days ago, my 2-year-old daughter decided she was going to throw herself on the floor and have a tantrum because I did not give her my lipstick to play with. The tantrum went on for about 15 – 20 minutes before she finally calm down. Question moms always ask is – what do I do when this happens?

Well, good or bad, every child will have a tantrum at least once every day (at least my does!). The cause of this tantrum can be many different things – from being tired, teething, overwhelm, or just simply trying to get attention.

Many experts say parents should try to comfort and understand their child during this time. I agreed with this method most but not all the time and here’s why. Most of the time children act out through tantrum to get attention of an adult or try to get what they want. Even as young as 2 years old, children will have tantrum to get what they want. If a child clearly needs attention, then yes, mommy or daddy needs to find out what is causing the tantrum. In most cases, the attention being given will help to calm and eventually stop the behavior.

On the other hand, if you know your child is simply trying to get his/her way, then I say, firmly and calmly say “no, that is #1”. Warn your child what will happen if you count to #3, then walk away. Give each count about 30 seconds in between. Be prepared to go through with the action if you do actually count to #3. It may take your child several times before he/she knows that you are serious. But once he/she sees that you are not kidding, you may only need to count to #1 or #2.

As a note, understand that the method above usually works with children ages 18 months and up as this is the stage where their self-control increases and they are able to understand and verbally communicate with better.

Lastly, although dealing with toddler tantrum is difficult and no parent look forward to it, it is something that all parents go through at some point. Some more than others but we all go through it, so know that you are not alone. The most important thing is to remember that in order to succeed you must:

- Be consistent
- Do not loose your cool
- Remember that you are the parent and adult in charge

By: Sarah Neno

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Sarah Neno is a stay at home mom (SAHM) of 2 girls and founder of www.momselounge.com, an on-line place for mothers to meet, share, and learn. Join a moms group or attend play dates, this website has it all for moms.