A tantrum is an emotional outburst that occurs in children aged 1 to 4 years. When the child is under stress, he may display various behaviors such as crying, shouting, kicking, hitting, throwing things, or falling to the ground.
Tantrums often occur when children are unable to adequately express or control their behavior. These can be caused by many things, such as stress, fatigue, hunger, overstimulation, or a child’s need for independence.
Tantrums are part of child development and do not necessarily indicate behavioral problems. When they don’t have words or problem-solving skills, they can be seen as a way for children to express their needs or express their feelings.
Although tantrums can be difficult for children and caregivers, the frequency and intensity of tantrums will decrease as children develop emotional control and communication skills. It is important that parents and caregivers respond to stress with patience, understanding, and appropriate strategies to help children learn to cope. Here are some things you can do to prevent or treat your child’s anxiety.
Understanding tantrums
Tantrums are part of a child’s development and usually appear between the ages of 1 and 4. Knowing the root cause of your tantrum can help you deal with it better. Symptoms include hunger, fatigue, depression, overstimulation, and a desire for autonomy.
Prevention
A good way to relieve stress. Make sure your child’s basic needs are met by providing regular meals, snacks, and rest. Avoid situations that can make you nervous, such as taking long trips or being in an overstimulating environment.
Communication
Encourage your child to verbally communicate their needs and wishes. Teach age-appropriate words and phrases to express their feelings, such as “I’m angry” or “I need help.” This will help them improve their language skills and reduce their anxiety.
Active Listening
When your child is upset, listen carefully. Show genuine interest by making eye contact, nodding, and responding with emotion. Let them know you understand by expressing their feelings, for example, “You seem really upset right now.”
Emotional Education
Help children control their emotions by guiding them through difficult situations. Acknowledge their feelings and provide guidance on how to deal with them. For example, “I know you’re angry, but hitting someone is not the solution. Let’s find a better way to solve this.”
Time-In
Do not set aside time-in when your child is distracted, consider using time-in correctly. Take care of your child and provide encouragement and motivation when it is high. Use a gentle touch, soothing words, or hugs to convey your support.
Stress and Change
Changing your child’s thinking helps you cope with anger. Give them their favorite toy, sing a song or start a game to distract them from the goal.
Visual cues
Visual cues can be helpful for younger children who may have difficulty expressing themselves verbally. Create or use pictures to represent differences and encourage your child to point to appropriate pictures when upset.
Social Stories
Social Stories are short stories that describe appropriate behavior and problem-solving strategies. Create a personal story describing conflicts and how to deal with them. Read these stories with your child regularly to encourage good behavior.
Sensory Regulation
Some tantrums can be caused by extreme sensory overload. Help your child identify and manage hearing loss by providing positive hearing experiences. Provide essential tools such as stress balls, fidgety toys, or a quiet place where they can retreat and self-organize.
Routine and predictability
Establish a consistent routine and environment needed to help your child feel safe. Discuss any changes or changes ahead of time and help them understand what to expect. Visual timers can be used to improve estimation.
Empower with Choices
Give your child age-appropriate choices throughout the day to improve control. For example, provide options for snacks, clothing, or events. This allows them to make decisions within limits and reduce the potential impact of power.
Teaching Coping Strategies
Teach your child simple and age-appropriate coping strategies to manage their emotions. Breathing deeply, counting to ten, or resting in a quiet place can help them self-regulate. Practice these skills together in quiet time.
Problem-Solving
Involve your child in problem-solving as he gets older. Encourage them to identify solutions and discuss the consequences of their choices. This allows them to find other ways and develop their curiosity.
Encourage Good Behavior
Praise and encourage good behavior to encourage your child. Celebrate their kindness and special compliments when they solve a difficult problem without hesitation. Positive reinforcement encourages them to continue using effective problem-solving strategies.
Consistency and Clear Expectations
Set clear boundaries and maintain them consistently. Be patient, considerate, and understanding as you help your child manage their emotions and learn problem-solving skills.
Seek Professional Support
If your child’s tantrums are severe, persistent, or significantly interfere with daily functioning, it may be beneficial to seek professional support. A pediatrician, child psychologist, or behavior specialist can provide further guidance and intervention strategies.
Remember, each child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient, consistent, and understanding as you help children navigate their emotions and learn healthier ways of coping.