Temper Tantrum in Toddlers - How to Handle Toddler Tantrums

Temper tantrums are unplanned, undesirable emotional outburst or behaviors that toddlers show as a response when their needs or desires are not met. Toddlers cannot fully control their emotions and express their needs which can lead to frustration. The next thing you will see is a screaming and crying toddler, flailing their arms and legs. A temper tantrum can also be a response if efforts of a toddler to gain independence are hindered. Though dealing with temper tantrums is indeed challenging, it is actually part of a normal development of a toddler.

Stay calm and look for ways how you can soothe your child from any discomfort he is feeling at the moment.

Ignore the tantrum. Toddlers crave for more attention, so the more involve you are when he throws out a tantrum, the longer you will hear him scream and cry.

Use distraction. Be creative and distract your crying toddler to something that is unusual or interesting.

In times when the toddler is physically out of control, move him to a safe area where he can thrash around without hurting himself or damaging other things.

Use time-outs, suitable for ages 3 and above. This will remove the toddler to the situation and force him to calm down.