- Acknowledge their emotions
When children are experiencing a temper tantrum, they are typically not able to understand their emotions. Therefore, it is vital to name these feelings for them. Something as simple as ‘You are really sad that we have to clean up the toys now. We can play again later’ can make a big difference.
- Stay calm
Temper tantrums can be scary for both adult and child. If you can stay calm you give your child the message that you can handle their emotions and this will help them to feel calmer.
- Catch them being good
It’s important to praise and pay attention to the behaviours that you want to see more of.
- Stick to your rules
Follow through on the boundaries and limits which you put in place.
- Be Kind
While it is important to put boundaries in place, you should still be kind when doing so. You could say, for example, ‘I understand that you are upset. It can be hard not getting what we want, but you’re not allowed any sweets right now’.
- Find out the reason behind the tantrum
Are they hugely distressed? Are they able to argue with you? Are there tears?
- Stay with them
It is important to stay with your child when they are experiencing a tantrum so that you can help them manage their distress.
- Provide prompts and warnings for transitions
Tell children about upcoming changes, for example ‘we’re leaving the swings in five minutes’.
- Play with your child
Schedule time to sit down and play with your child.
- Take time out for yourself
You can’t pour from an empty cup.
