Toddler Tantrums

As a conscious parenting coach, one of the most common challenges I see parents facing is managing their toddler’s tantrums. Tantrums are a natural part of a child’s emotional development, but they can be incredibly frustrating for both parents and children. The good news is that there are ways to support your child in regulating themselves and reducing the frequency and intensity of tantrums.

Stay calm and regulated yourself. When your child is having a tantrum, it’s important to stay calm and centered yourself. Take a few deep breaths and try to remain present in the moment. This can be challenging when you’re feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, but it’s important to remember that your child is looking to you for guidance and support.

Validate your child’s feelings. Tantrums are often a result of a child feeling overwhelmed or frustrated by their emotions. When your child is having a tantrum, try to validate their feelings by saying things like “I can see that you’re feeling really upset right now” or “It’s okay to feel angry sometimes”. This can help your child feel heard and understood, which can go a long way in reducing the intensity of their tantrum.

Create a safe space for your child to express their emotions. When your child is having a tantrum, it’s important to create a safe space for them to express their emotions. This might mean finding a quiet spot away from any distractions or noise, or simply sitting with your child and holding them while they cry. The key is to let your child know that their emotions are valid and that you’re there to support them.

Teach your child self-regulation techniques. As your child gets older, it’s important to start teaching them self-regulation techniques that they can use to manage their emotions on their own. This might include deep breathing exercises, meditation, or simply taking a few moments to pause and reflect on how they’re feeling. By teaching your child these techniques early on, you’re helping them develop important skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Set clear boundaries and expectations. While it’s important to validate your child’s emotions, it’s also important to set clear boundaries and expectations around behaviour. Let your child know what is and isn’t acceptable behaviour, and be consistent in enforcing those boundaries. This can help your child feel safe and secure, which can reduce the likelihood of tantrums in the first place.