Triumphing Over Tantrums

Before you had kids you probably witnessed an out ofneeds some help picking up the toys" usually goes
control child having a temper tantrum at the store.over better than "get in here and pick up this
More than likely you thought or said, "If that was mymess!"Don't use bribery. Does she really deserve a
child, I would ______". Well now here you are withcookie for going to bed on time or not misbehaving at
children of your own dealing with these exactthe grocery store? By doing this you will only
situations. Temper tantrums are a normal part of lifeencourage her to break the rules to get a treat.Don't
with toddlers and preschoolers. Almost all youngreact to her by yelling at her to be quiet. This will
children have tantrums occasionally. If handledprobably only upset her more. Sometimes in the midst
appropriately, most children outgrow this stage by fourof an outburst it is hard for a child to regain
or five.Some children have severe tantrums and maycomposure. Help her to calm down by giving her some
get so upset that they vomit or hold their breath untilquiet time in her room. Offer her a cup of water to
they pass out. Although this can be extremelyhelp her relax if she is hyperventilating.Sometimes
upsetting to the parent, the child will generally recoverchildren have tantrums because they want your
quickly and completely. If your child is fainting orattention. Look at the situation. Have you been
vomiting from tantrums, you may want to consult yourwatching tv, reading a book, or talking on the phone? If
pediatrician to check for any other healthyour child hasn't had much "mommy time", she may be
concerns.How you handle tantrums will have a directtrying to tell you something. Once she has calmed
impact on the frequency and intensity of the tantrums.down from her tantrum, try setting some time aside
Here are some tips on preventing tantrums and howjust for her.If you are in a public place, remove the child
to respond to them.Make sure your child is notfrom the situation if you can. Go to the car or the
over-tired. If she is cranky or tired put her down for arestroom until she calms down.When to call the
nap or try doing some quiet time. You can lay down indoctor.If you are concerned that your child's tantrums
the bed and read a book or play soothing music toare extreme or more frequent than they should be, call
help her relax.Be consistent with your rules. If she hasyour pediatrician for help. If your child injures herself or
a tantrum and you give in to her demands, she will tryothers, destroys property, has frequent nightmares,
this again. The more consistent you are, the more sheregresses in potty training, faints, has stomach aches
will learn that tantrums don't work.When you ask youror anxiety attacks consult your doctor.
child to do something, try asking nicely first. "Mommy