How to Handle Toddler Tantrums

Every parent knows the feeling of dread that comes with a toddler tantrum. While it can be hard to keep your cool during these situations, there are some parenting solutions you can use to help prevent and manage toddler tantrums.

Read on to learn about the top five solutions for dealing with temper tantrums.

Toddler Tantrums

Take a Break

Parenting can sometimes be overwhelming, and it can be easy to lose patience when dealing with toddler tantrums.

When you start feeling overwhelmed, take a few minutes to regroup, breathe deeply and remind yourself of the strategies you have available.

Taking a break from the situation can benefit toddlers and parents alike. Let the toddler step away from whatever situation is causing the meltdown, and allow everyone time to cool down before addressing the issue again.

Give Choices

Sometimes toddlers feel overwhelmed and frustrated when they don’t have control over their actions or environment.

Allowing your child to make small choices throughout the day will give them a sense of autonomy which can lead to fewer tantrums overall.

Try giving your child two options whenever possible to give them some control over their situation without overwhelming them. 

Set Boundaries and Stick to Them

One of the best ways to prevent future tantrums is by setting boundaries early on and sticking to those boundaries consistently.

For example, if your toddler throws toys when they don’t get their way – then set a rule that any thrown toy must be immediately put away before they can have something else instead or nothing at all.

By enforcing discipline and boundaries early on, your toddler will soon learn what behaviors are acceptable and which aren’t – making future meltdowns less likely.

You can enroll in online programs to help you understand how to tackle toddler tantrums.

A Toddler Toolkit, for instance, is a great resource that provides parents and caregivers with the tools they need to help manage toddler tantrums.

It includes fun activities, resources, and tips on how to handle these issues more effectively. Be sure to find resources created by qualified professionals to get the most accurate advice for your toddler.

Distraction Tactics

Distracting your child from whatever is causing their frustration is often an effective way of calming them down quickly without getting into long conversations or explanations about why something isn’t allowed or what should happen next.

Try clapping your hands and singing silly songs, playing peek-a-boo, or even just pointing out something interesting in their immediate environment. 

Show Some Compassion

Don’t forget to have some compassion when dealing with toddlers; it’s easy to lose your temper; however, it is crucial to understand they are still learning to communicate without resorting to tantrums.

Let them know that you understand their feelings and are there for them with a hug or encouraging words. Even simple gestures like a pat on the head can help reassure a child that they can come to you in any situation. 

Showing compassion will help little ones become confident and compassionate, so don’t miss out on these crucial moments. Remember that tantrums can signify tiredness or hunger, so don’t be afraid to check for those underlying needs when possible.

You’ll soon become a pro at handling toddler tantrums by trying out some of these solutions. Staying calm and keeping cool during these situations is essential, as reacting in anger will only make the situation worse.

Julie Higgins
Author
Julie is a Staff Writer at momooze.com. She has been working in publishing houses before joining the editorial team at momooze. Julie's love and passion are topics around beauty, lifestyle, hair and nails.