What can parents do to reduce tantrums in children?

Every parent has experienced the frustration of their child throwing tantrums, crying loudly, and making unreasonable demands. These impulsive reactions are most common in children aged 1-3 years old. This is considered a way for children to express their emotions while their language and communication skills are not yet fully developed.

From a young age, most children realize that tantrums are often effective. It's a good way to get adults to comply. Therefore, parents need to curb this behavior as early as possible. Without proper intervention, tantrums will worsen, and a child who frequently throws tantrums will become a whining adult.

Stay calm and don't give in.

Listening to a child's tantrum can be even worse than completing a nerve-wracking task. However, it's crucial for adults to remain calm. Trying to end a child's anger by yelling or scolding is completely ineffective.

It's best for parents to sit still and let the child scream and cry until they're tired and things calm down on their own. Once the tantrum has subsided, the child will feel more comfortable, and the parents' advice and guidance will be more meaningful. In this way, parents can also control their own emotions and calmly discuss the issue that's bothering their child.

No matter what your child does, don't give in. If parents give in by saying, "Okay, have another cookie!", they will teach their child that tantrums are an effective way to get what they want.

Give advance warning.

One thing that frustrates children is when parents suddenly end their playtime without prior notice. Adults can't just tell them they'll be home in 10 minutes, because when children are playing, they lose their sense of time.

Instead, parents can be more specific, for example, saying the child can slide down the slide two more times, ride the bike two more times, and then go home. This is something the child can understand and will obey, even if they still want to stay and play.

Encourage the child to sit still to regain their composure.

This is a method that many preschool teachers follow, and parents can also apply it. Set aside a corner in your home as a "quiet space" for your child; this could be the sofa by the window, a ruged corner with books, toys, and other entertainment items scattered around.

When children are upset or angry, parents can encourage them to sit there and distract them with various activities.

Give positive attention when the diving stops.

As soon as the whining stops, give your child positive attention. Praise them by saying something like, "I love how you play so quietly!"

Focus on positive behavior; this will encourage your child to seek attention in positive ways.

Prevent future tantrums.

Equip your child with the necessary skills to handle unpleasant emotions like frustration, boredom, and sadness without complaining.

If your child is angry about not being allowed to go outside to play, encourage them to deal with those angry feelings by doing something else, such as coloring or playing board games. Coping skills will help them process their emotions in a positive way.

Children also need problem-solving skills to manage their emotions. If your child is upset because it's raining and the family beach trip is canceled, help them find an indoor activity. Empowering them to solve problems independently will help them enjoy the task without throwing a tantrum.

Source: https://giadinhonline.vn/lam-gi-khi-con-lien-tuc-an-va-d199655.html