Toddler Tantrums
You have tried everything you can think of, and you just can’t seem to sooth your screaming toddlers’ tantrum. The more you try to help only seems to make things worse. You have offered a toy, tried to hug them, tried talking to them, and the only thing you have accomplished has been watching your red faced little one throw themselves onto the floor.
Don’t worry, you are not alone. Your toddler is most likely just upset because of something they don’t understand, or something they can not communicate to you. Parenting a toddler can be a very trying time, but yet very rewarding.
This point in your child’s life is amazing. Your little one is learning, and discovering more things in one single day, when they are two years old, than they ever have or ever will throughout their life.
That is a lot of pressure, and confusion for them sometimes. A tiny thing such as wanting to watch The Doodlebops, and not the Mickey Mouse you just put in, can lead to a half hour toddler tantrum. Maybe they tried to communicate to you what they want, but they just can’t seem to get the point across. Imagine how frustrating that is for them!
Whenever you feel your toddler is slipping into one of these times, try to be calm with them. Get down on one knee so you are at their level and soothingly talk to them. Try to convey to them that you are there, and you want to help with whatever the problem is.
If there is no stopping the incoming tantrum, like a train hurling down the track, stay focused on remaining calm. Toddlers are very adept at sensing your anxiety, stress, and frustration. This will only add to theirs and make things even worse. It can be very difficult, I know; I’ve been there. You have heard the saying “count to 10” I’m sure, but it really is a very good thing to do.
On the go
The grocery store can be a very scary place for parents of toddlers. You may rush through hoping and praying that something does not trigger one of your toddler’s tantrums. When you are on the go with your little one there are some things you can do in trying to prevent a fiasco.
* Ensure that you bring a sippy cup for drinks, especially if you are going to be outside in the heat.
* Bring some favorite snacks and don’t let your toddler leave the house hungry. (Unless of course you are going out to eat)
* Don’t take a tired toddler out to run errands, you are only asking for trouble if you do. Go in the morning or right after their nap.
* Bring a well loved toy or hat. Anything that may distract them from a potential tantrum trigger.
Toddler tantrums are going to be an ongoing part of your daily routine for a while. It is just something that comes with the territory. Don’t let it interrupt your life or let it have negative impacts on your relationship with them. Understand that tantrums are not an attack on you. Enjoy your time with your little ones now, before they grow up!
