Toddler Temper Tantrums

The terrible twos.
Even the most dignified parent has been left red-faced while their toddler is having a public meltdown. 

Here are a few easy ideas for avoiding toddler temper tantrums. 

Don’t Let Your Toddler Get Overtired – Don’t let your toddler become too tired. Set a regular nap routine and try to stick to it. Also make sure he goes to bed at a reasonable time and gets enough sleep during the night. Tiredness is often the first reason for a tantrum. 

Keep Sugar Levels Stable - Don’t let your toddler’s blood sugar levels dip too low. This will make him irritable and tired, the tantrum will soon follow. Make sure he has plenty of small nutritious snacks throughout the day to provide him with a steady source of energy to avoid blood sugar dips. 

Give Them Time - Allow enough time for activities such as getting dressed, brushing hair and getting in and out of the car. Your toddler will want to do a lot of these things on his own and rushing him is a sure way to start a tantrum. Give him a little extra time and let him try to be independent by allowing him to do certain things for himself. 

Put it Away – Is there a certain item that always causes your toddler to have a tantrum? A food that’s only for after dinner or an item he shouldn’t have? Then put it where he can’t see it. Out of sight, out of mind, is a great way to avoid temper tantrums. 

Ignore It – This is easier said than done, and, of course, it depends on where your child is having his tantrum. If you’re in the middle of the supermarket you can’t just walk away or ignore your child especially if he is grabbing or breaking things. In this instance it may be best to gently pick up your child and take him outside or to an area away from people and noise. Give him a few minutes to calm down and a big hug. 

If your child is having a tantrum in a safe place (at home, for example) it’s best to walk away until he calms down. Make sure he can’t hurt himself or anything or anyone else and just walk away. Once he’s finished give him a hug and talk about what he’s feeling. 

Give Him a Hug – Many times, your child just needs to be held and needs you to help him control his emotions. If he’s in the middle of a tantrum try simply holding him. Be sensitive to his reactions and if you see your hug is only making him more upset then give him a little space, or try a different approach