Effective Strategies to Prevent the Occurrence of Tantrum in the Little One

Managing the Little One who often gets angry, rages, bangs objects, or even rolls on the floor is not an easy matter. This condition is often referred to as tantrum in children. Tantrums are common, particularly in children aged between 1 and 4 years old. Even though it seems horrific, tantrums are a way for the Little One to learn to communicate effectively with their parents and surroundings.

Causes of Tantrums

Tantrums are not only caused by the wishes of the Little One not being fulfilled, and there are various other factors, such as being exhausted, hungry, or purely due to communication limitations in conveying their wants. Nevertheless, there are some children who are more prone to tantrum, which includes those who are more hyperactive, those with fluctuations in mood and feelings, and those who find it difficult to adapt to the environment.

Managing Tantrums

The simplest and fastest way to stop tantrum is to give what the Little One wants. However, this does not have a good impact in the long run. The Little One will learn that by throwing tantrums, they can control their parents to do anything they want.

The first thing that parents should do when the Little One is experiencing a tantrum is to maintain their composure and remain calm. Do not get carried away with emotions and then scold or even hit the child. Firmly say that their behaviour is not right. Explain to them why their wishes cannot be fulfilled. If the tantrum persists, do not fulfil their wishes. Wait until they are calm. If parents feel embarrassed in a public place, believe that this is for their own good and many people have already experienced this before. Parents should always remain around the Little One to ensure that the tantrum does not endanger them.

Another important thing is for parents to explain that even though you do not fulfil their wishes, this does not mean that you do not care. Hug the Little One and tell them that you are doing this because you care and want the best for them.

Tantrums do not suddenly occur. Parents should be able to recognize what can usually trigger it. The chance for a tantrum to occur can be minimized by conducting the following steps:

• Ensure that the Little One gets enough sleep and is not feeling hungry.
• Give them positive attention. For instance, by using motivational sentences when they do a good thing.
• Understand the limitations of the Little One. For instance, when they seem exhausted, postpone your plans to go for monthly shopping until after they have had their afternoon nap.

Tantrums can only be overcome with a positive and consistent management strategy. Communicate this to other individuals who are present around the Little One, including their grandfather, grandmother, or caregivers, so they can also participate. The Little One will learn that tantrum is not a weapon that they can use whenever their desires are not met.