How To Prevent A Tantrum
Not all toddler tantrums can be avoided, but you can at least try to structure your toddler’s environment and activities in such a way that he is less prone to lose control over his emotions. Here are some tried and tested ways to prevent a toddler tantrum:
- Read the signs – Learn to read your toddler’s signs. If he got up at the wrong side of the bed and has been cranky for most of the day, then taking him to an out-of-town trip might be too much for him. Rather spend quiet time playing with him and reading to him.
- Keep nap times regular – If you are out visiting with a toddler who has not taken a nap, you are likely to experience a meltdown at your host’s house. Plan your visiting schedule around his nap times as far as possible.
- Check blood sugar levels – Make sure that he has regular meals, drinks and snacks. A hungry toddler is like a ticking time bomb.
- Don’t say no if you can say yes – I find my self often saying ‘no’ for no particular reason when my toddler has a request especially if it involves a mess and I just don’t feel up to cleaning up afterwards. I’ve learned to weigh every ‘no’ carefully because too many ‘no’s’ in a row may result to my toddler becoming frustrated and eventually leading to an outburst.
- Let her choose – Instead of forcing your toddler to do something or wear a specific outfit, allow him to choose. While holding each shirt up, say, “Would you like to wear the blue shirt or the yellow one?”
- Reflect his emotions – If you can notice that your toddler is upset and has problems expressing his emotions, interpret and reflect his emotions for his. Say, “You are sad because your toy broke, aren’t you? Let me try to fix it for you.”
Your toddler is not bent on embarrassing and challenging you during this phase. He is a little person learning the basics of being an individual and expressing his emotions. Viewing the world from his perspective and providing clear boundaries will go a long way in helping you deal with any tantrums that may happen.
