5 Tips For Handling Temper Tantrums

Even though parents try as they might to avoid tantrums, most of the time it’s out of their control.  When kids lack the language skills to be able to express themselves, they only have tantrums to turn to for venting their feelings.

Rather than trying to stop tantrums, learn how to accept and handle them.  So how do you handle a full-fledged outburst in public?  Here are some of the best tips to get you started.

Try To Stay Calm

Even though you may start to feel your blood boiling as the shrieks burst your eardrums, remember, you’re the adult.  Not only can negatively reacting to their tantrums display a terrible example, but it can also be dangerous.  Blowing up in reaction to a tantrum while operating machinery or driving your car could lead to getting in a serious accident.

Try to tune out the madness and take deep breaths.  Walk away if you can, or turn up some music for a few moments.  Do whatever it takes to keep as calm as possible.  If you don’t react, your child will likely stop.

Speak With a Calm Voice

You probably feel like screaming, but now is not the time. Keeping your voice low and soothing can have a considerable effect on the duration of their tantrum.

Even if they are screaming so loud that you can’t hear yourself, continue to repeat the same phrase over and over calmly.  Eventually, they will understand if you stay consistent.

Distract Them

Sometimes there’s no reasoning with a hungry or tired child.  The best defense you have is to distract them from whatever they’re upset about.  Try to point out something of interest, or make a silly face.

It may not work every time, but it’s worth a shot when you’re in a pinch.

Choose Your Battles

In certain situations, it may not be worth standing your ground.  Experts don’t recommend giving in every time; however, it’s important to choose your battles.  Sometimes it may be worth letting them wear a cape to school for the sake of a peaceful car ride.

Do Not Tolerate Physical Aggression

If your kid starts to hit or turn to any other kinds of physical aggression, react immediately.  It’s important to show them this kind of behavior won’t be tolerated.  If possible, remove them from the situation.   You may want to consider giving them a time out so that they calm down.

In cases where a child has lost control entirely, try to hold their arms down calmly and repeat that violence is not okay.  Eventually, they will snap out of it. 

Try to Identify The Triggers

If you notice that tantrums usually occur about the same things, try to figure out ways to avoid these situations in the future.   By creating a distraction or eliminating the risk altogether, you can lower the chances of a meltdown.

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