How to Stay Calm During a Child's Tantrum

Temper tantrums are frustrating for both parent and toddler, but it helps to keep things in perspective. Tantrums are a normal part of toddler behavior, with nearly all children between the ages of 1 and 3 having them. Most toddlers average between five and nine tantrums each week, according to New South Wales Department of Community Services, so it is important to find a healthy way to manage your own emotions. The most important thing to remember when dealing with temper tantrums is that physical punishment, such as spanking and hitting, are not effective tantrum deterrents.

Instructions

    • 1

      Speak calmly but don't yell. Just repeating a mantra to yourself that you are going to use a calm voice and not get upset can be enough to help you stay calm. Yelling won't help your toddler get over his tantrum, and it definitely won't keep you calm.

    • 2

      Remind yourself that your toddler is having a tantrum because she is frustrated, is testing her independence or wants your attention. She is not having a tantrum to annoy you. Just understanding this fact may help you stay calm and reasonable.

    • 3

      Use tricks to maintain your patience. Count to five or ten before responding to your child. If he is in a safe area of your home, leave the room for a few minutes to regain your composure before returning to deal with the situation.

    • 4

      Ignore the tantrum or place your child on time-out until the tantrum is over and your child regains control. Do not try to reason with your toddler; this won't shorten the tantrum and will only serve to frustrate you.

    • 5

      Act silly. Make a funny face or say something silly to your toddler to distract him. Don't give in to whatever is causing the tantrum, but rather do something quick and silly to lighten both your moods. This may work well in public, when the goal is to end the tantrum quickly and not draw a lot of attention to yourselves.

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