Almost all children have temper tantrums in their toddler years. This is one way they can express their anger and frustration. Tantrums are a normal part of child development. They may include crying, screaming, and breath holding. Children may even throw themselves on their backs to the floor, hold their breath, clench their teeth, and kick and pound their fists. These emotional outbursts release energy as well as attract attention.
Your child's temperament will set the tone. Some children are very adaptable, easygoing, positive, and easily distracted. Children who are very active, intense, and persistent may have intense tantrums. Tantrums tend to occur more often if a child is anxious, ill, moody, or tired.
What is a parent to do? Temper tantrums are rarely harmful. They are less likely to be repeated if they fail to attract a response. It is crucial not to give in or act in anger. Otherwise, children will think tantrums will allow them to have things their way. Here are some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics on how to respond:
* Stay calm and peaceful.
* Do not get angry or resort to spanking.
* State your position clearly with a confident tone of voice.
* Distract your child to obedience with humor or fun.
* Soothe and quiet the child with a big, restraining hug and calm voice.
* Call a time-out for aggressive behavior like kicking or biting. Isolate the child for a time-out. There should be no attention, no toys, and no fun during a time-out.
Consult your pediatrician for any of the following behaviors:
* Tantrums that persist or intensify after age four.
* A child injures himself or others, or destroys property during tantrums.
* Tantrums are accompanied by frequent nightmares, extreme disobedience, reversal of toilet training, development of headaches or stomachaches, refusal to eat or go to bed, extreme anxiety, constant grumpiness, or clinging to parents.
* A child holds their breath and faints or has a seizure during tantrums.
