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Toddler Tantrums: 5 Foolproof Prevention Strategies
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by: HarrietMorris
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Word Count: 432
Avoiding tantrums is possible. Here are 5 simple preventative strategies that will make you and your toddler's lives easier.
Know Why Outbursts Happen
Why do temper tantrums occur? There are 2 reasons. Either the toddler is not capable of doing what he wants (e.g. when trying to do a jigsaw puzzle that is too difficult), or he is being stopped from doing it (he wants to take a puzzle that someone else is working on).
Both types of outburst are a natural part of toddler development. Remember this, learn to expect them, and you will manage potential tantrums better.
Preventative Planning
What tantrum 'triggers' are preventable? For example, shopping expeditions with your child, restaurants and sugar in any form (it can make some toddlers over-exciteable).
Shop online, avoid restaurants and substitute crackers for cookies - at least for now. At this age children develop so fast that you never know when yours will suddenly be able to deal with previously nightmarish situations.
Limit Difficult Tasks
Avoid problems by watching out for games, toys or activities that are too complex for your child. When he does try out an unfamiliar task, be there to support him. Help out with a new puzzle, and guide him when he takes on new tasks like getting dressed.
Choose Your Battles
As adults, we do sometimes create the conditions for an outburst. Take the example of little Alice, happily engrossed in her toys. She is suddenly bundled into her coat and told she must come now - her father had forgotten he has an important letter to post, and they only have 5 minutes to do it. Daddy would do well to offer some treat rather than tell Alice off for wanting to stay home, so avoiding a potential screaming fit.
Offer a Substitute
It's tough for young children to understand that they can't always get what they want. Compensating them with some other activity or item encourages the ability to compromise - but make sure the replacement is not wildly extravagant.
Is your little one starving but has to wait for you to cook the dinner? A cracker is a good compromise here.
The promise of a game or story makes up for having to leave an enjoyable play date.
Nobody who lives with a young child is ever going to avoid tantrums completely- they are a fact of life. However, with the techniques explained above, it is possible to reduce their frequency and length.
About the Author
Harriet Morris has two children and has a decade's experience working with children with Special Educational Needs. Her website www.toddler-ideas.com is full of practical advice and activity resources for life with a toddler. Go to toddler tantrums for more ideas on understanding and dealing with toddler tantrums.
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