5 ways to handle Terrible Twos, Threes & Fours. Toddler Tantrum is a normal phase that is part of a child’s development.
Here are 5 ways to handle toddler tantrums that I’ve acquired from working with little ones…
What are Terrible Twos, Threes, & Fours?
They are part of the Toddler Tantrums. They usually happen to kids from 1 to 4 years old.
It is a behavior to show that they are upset or frustrated. It can be by kicking, throwing objects, screaming, and breath-holding.
The good thing, you can prevent them!
Kids often have tantrums when they are hungry, tired, or uncomfortable (dirty diaper, in a crowd especially when seeing strangers…)
The other reason, toddlers need a consistent routine. They need to know in advance what is going to happen.
So before doing a transition, start by giving the child a heads up. If this doesn’t work in the first place. You can then use the offering choice method.
For example:
Let’s say the child is playing with blocks and you want him to clean up…
- The heads up:
You can say ” Child’s name, in 5 mins clean-up time! “
You’re using a clear message to the child and you’re respecting the fact that he’s in the middle of the play.
When only 2 mins are left, give him another reminder to start tidying up.
This method sometimes doesn’t work all the time. If that’s the case.. use the other effective method.
- Offering reasonable: choices
Using the same previous scenario,
Let’s say the child got upset and refused to clean up or responded with a big no!
you can ask the child calmly “Do you want to clean up by yourself or do you want mommy to help you? “
By offering choices, you’re giving the child the opportunity to focus on picking up the right choice and you make him forget indirectly about throwing a tantrum.
You’re using the positive redirection!
You should know that Toddler Tantrums are part of the child’s development. And sometimes they will happen without any reason.
5 ways to handle terrible twos, threes & fours :
1) Stay calm
Remember if you get angry, it could get worse!
Take a break if you need to and switch with another person to take over. (Sometimes, having a different person intervening can calm the situation). Also, you can enjoy this time to take a hot relaxing bath or go for a quick walk.
2) Help Your Child To Express Emotions
I see that you are upset but…
Would you like my help?
I am sure we can find a solution later.
I will be here when you are ready.
3) Wait For The Tantrum To End
Stay close to the child so she knows you’re there but don’t interact!
4) Take Charge!
Use your judgment and redirection. For example, let’s say your child started to throw tantrums in the middle of the toy aisle, pick up the child and distract him with something else different.
5. Be consistent and calm!
Never give the child what he wants when throwing a tantrum. He will think it would always be a reward after a tantrum.
When your child calms down, give some love and affection. Ask him if he needs a hug.
The good thing about tantrums is that they will go away on their own one day especially when your child starts talking.
This is why our job as parents, is to encourage literacy in the early years and read more to our children.
Reading books to children stimulates their imagination and expands their understanding of the world.
Your child improves language skills by copying sounds, recognizing pictures, and learning words
Here are some nice books for toddlers:
I hope you found these 5 ways to handle terrible Twos, Threes & Four useful.
Here is a blog post about 5 calming activities for toddlers!