Photo by Silvinka
Toddlers and tantrums are nearly synonymous with each other.
There is a reason why they call it the terrible twos and the horrible threes. These tantrums are more times than not your child being frustrated because they feel they are not being heard or understood.
They are at that age where they realize they can exert some independence and have the ability to communicate what they want or make a desired change.
When they don’t know how to effectively control their emotions they can lash out by yelling, biting or throwing things.
That said, you’ll be happy to know that many tantrums are avoidable. Since tantrums are an expression of lack of control / power, toddlers who feel they do have some control with definitely have fewer tantrums than those who don’t.
So here are 6 tips on how to talk to your toddler with bad behavior and if you’re interested in more Parenting news, Grab your FREE REPORT today
Acknowledge what they are trying to communicate and steer the communication
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Photo by David Goehring
Yes, they may feel that they need a piece of candy and even feel they are entitled to it, even though it is almost bed time and they have just brushed their teeth.
Sometimes simply acknowledging that you have heard them and then steering the conversation away will help avoid a tantrum. You can do this easily by asking if they remember that they already had a piece of candy that day or that they can have another one tomorrow.
Then simply bring up all the other fun things you both did that day. Even if toddlers have amazing memories, it shouldn’t take too long for them to forget the reason why they were angry in the first place.
Divert their attention
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Photo by george ruiz
It’s not always possible to remove the source of your toddler’s distress, but If there is something that they want but cannot have, divert their attention.
They may not be able to have that piece of candy but they may enjoy reading a book just the same. You could simply say for example: “Why don’t we read your favorite book?” Usually it’s quite easy to divert your toddler’s attention.
Another great tactic is giving them the ability to choose an activity by giving them choices that you are comfortable with. Toddlers tend to be a lot happier when they feel the choice was made on their own.
Be matter of fact
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When there is something they cannot do, simply state it as a fact.
Do not waiver or show signs that they may possibly have what they are wanting.
Teach it in a way that shows them that this is simply the way the world works – it is the law.People simply do not put their dirty shoes on the couch and people simply do not sleep with toys.
Here’s a free video for parents in need of help
Use nonverbal communication
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Photo by Lars Plougmann
Toddlers have a limited vocabulary and sometimes do not understand everything that we say.
Make sure you’re aware of your nonverbal communication as they will look to this social cues. Nonverbal communication can be expressed by your facial expressions, tone of voice and the way you move your body.
Children are very sensitive to this type of communication.
Institute time out
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Photo by Gordon
It is recommended that a child stays in time-out based on their age. So if they are three years old then three minutes is sufficient, as a four year old would sit in time-out for four minutes. Be firm and institute a one warning system.
It is not effective when you are giving them their third or fourth chance. Choose an area that is without distraction or toys. If they run out, simply put them back in. Time outs can be hard to instill but it is worth it in the end.
interested in more Parenting news? Grab your FREE REPORT today
Set up routines.
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Photo by Gabriela Pinto
Sometimes tantrums may be a result in your toddler having a difficult time transitioning from one activity to another. An example of this is when you’re at a park and it’s time to go.
Help them transition to the next activity by giving them 10 and 5 minute warnings. That way they know that soon it will be time to go. This warning can come by just telling them, although some parents also put a countdown bell on their phone. You will be surprised at how effective this is.
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Free Toddler Parenting Tips
There is one word that as a parent you are probably (without knowing) abusing, which triggers those awful temper tantrums.
Being a parent is indeed tough, so you need to learn the right techniques in order for you to raise your toddler properly. There is a crucial emotional bridge you MUST establish with your child before you try to change their behavior.
Now the good news is that with the right knowledge and strategies, toddler problems can easily be conquered.
and If you’ve got two minutes..
I recommend you look at the free video lesson for parents in their journey towards a happy and stress-free parenthood.