PREVENTING TODDLER TEMPER TANTRUM
While sometimes tantrums are inevitable, a few smart strategies can help head them off:
• Work with your child's personality. For many kids, keeping a schedule of regular mealtimes, naptimes and bedtimes offers a sense of what they can expect at various points in their day — which makes them feel more secure, in control and comforted.However other kids thrive on spontaneity — so if your child seems to get stressed out by schedules, ease up a bit.
• Ward off the "fearsome four." Hunger, fatigue, boredom and overstimulation, that is. That means avoid overscheduling or planning a big excursion (like grocery shopping) before naptime. And make sure to leave the house with your toddler’s tummy full — and with healthy snacks and a favorite small toy or book.
• Cut down on the need to say "no." This includes childproofing your home (so you don't have to constantly cry, "No, don't touch that!") and setting clear limits.
• Provide choice whenever possible. Being able to make decisions ("Do you want to eat cereal or yogurt this morning?") helps a toddler feel more in control.
• Don't say "maybe." In toddler translation, "maybe" equals "yes." Instead, say "yes" or "no," or negotiate a compromise.