Overcoming Tantrums in Children

What is parenting?

Parenting is a process of raising children and providing them with protection, care and also support. Supporting children physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually ensures their healthy development and smooth transition into adulthood. The right parenting style such as positive parenting will develop a disciplined child. Positive parenting emphasizes positive discipline rather than harsh discipline and punishment for misbehavior. When a child misbehaves, parents should strive to concentrate on teaching the desired behavior rather than penalizing the child.

Our child learns to show tantrums or also known as the terrible twos when language skills are starting to develop at an early age. As toddlers cannot communicate their feelings or needs, a frustrating experience leads to tantrums. However, tantrums tend to lessen as language abilities increase. For most toddlers, tantrum is a way to express frustration but for older children, tantrums might be a learned behavior. Tantrums are more likely to worsen if parents follow their children's wants and needs too much, or allow their children to get something by having a tantrum.

Strategies to overcome the terrible twos

Be consistent: Consistency in schedule, routines, discipline patterns, and rules helps your child become organised and understand how the world works.

Allow your child to make choices: Give your child a sense of control by letting them choose between two good options—such as orange juice or chocolate milk, or different toys.

Praise good behavior: Give attention when they behave well—sharing, speaking kindly, cleaning up toys. They will do more of what earns positive attention.

Avoid triggers: Steer clear of tempting situations when shopping, or choose child-friendly restaurants with quick service.

The best way to respond to a tantrum

Remaining calm is always the best response to a tantrum. Your child may imitate your behavior if you react with loud and angry outbursts. Being responsive is another way to respond—for example, offer to assist if you have asked them to do something against their will, or clarify why instructions matter.

If your child starts kicking, striking, or throwing things, keep them in your arms to prevent harm. Take your child to a safer place and calmly acknowledge the emotion they are showing. By acknowledging your child's feelings, you help them understand and deal with their emotions. Offer hugs if they seek touch, or give space if they need silence. However, parents must not give in to tantrums regarding unnecessary requests.

The terrible twos are a normal part of your child's development, especially between the ages of 1 and 4 years old. With proper nurturing, it will establish positive relationships that are essential in promoting healthy social and emotional development.

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