As a mom, I feel uncomfortable when my child throws a tantrum. Many times, we feel that the battle is already lost when it happens. We feel uncomfortable with these situations because it goes against our agenda as a parent. The worst tantrums are those that happen in public. At this time is when we tell ourselves “Earth, please swallow me now!”. Jokes aside, here are some useful tips on how we can successfully deal with a tantrum:
1. Stay calm. Every tantrum is temporary and it will end. If the tantrum is in public, it is not about you (father/mother); it is about how we can help our children regulate their big emotions/feelings. Remember that we are the most important role models for our children and we need to set the best example.
2. Give the child space to let it all out, this may help the child calm down faster. When we as adults are overwhelmed or stressed, we would not like people tell us “calm down, calm down. Don’t do that.” Hearing this can be stressful and could make us feel like we do not matter.
3. Change of location/space and find a quiet place. Changing environments can help. If the tantrum happens at home. It is important that we have a designated area in where the parent and child feel comfortable, this way that the child can continue to relax and then reflect.
4. Provide eye contact to the child and do not leave the child alone. Many times when tantrums happen, we want to leave our children alone, but this can worsen the tantrum, as the tantrum is a way for the child to get your attention.
5. Suggest or change of activity as this may help the child to forget the reason for his tantrum.
If you can, share with us how you helped your child out of a tantrum successfully?
