How to Get Toddlers to Stop Screaming & Screeching

Why Toddlers Scream

• Think about why your little one is screaming in the first place. AskDrSears.com explains that in some cases, toddlers scream and screech merely to hear themselves make noise. She is just coming into her own and testing her voice and the power it gives her, such as making everyone in church turn around to look. If your toddler is screaming but not upset, merely trying to be as loud as possible, take her outside somewhere where it's OK to be as loud as she wants. Tell her loud voices are only acceptable outside. But if your child is screaming while kicking on the floor and having a general fit, she may be experiencing strong emotions she hasn't learned to cope with yet, and knows no other way to express herself than to yell. In this case, speak calmly to your child and teach her other ways to express her feelings, but never give in to a temper tantrum.

Ignore the Screaming

• KidsHealth points out that often the best way to get your child to stop screaming is just to ignore it. Little ones scream and screech to get attention or to get what they want, so if you calmly go about your business he will get the message that screaming and having a hissy fit does not work with you, and isn't worth the effort. If the screaming and screeching are accompanied by activities that could hurt your child, like banging his head, hold him still or put him somewhere safe like his crib, until the tantrum is over. But do not engage your child while doing this; simply and calmly remove him from the situation.

Timeout

• Another option for screaming and screeching is to use discipline, such as a timeout, for inappropriate temper tantrum behavior. Put your child in a chair or playpen for two minutes with no toys or anything fun to do, but within your sight.

Reward Good Behavior

• FamilyDoctor.org suggests ignoring negative behavior whenever possible and rewarding the good, thus giving your child more attention for the good things she does than the not so good. For instance, if you notice your child playing nicely with her dolls, give her a big hug and make a fuss over how nice and quiet she's being. When she picks up her toys without being asked, give her a sticker.

Don't Give In

• As hard as it can be to follow through when you're exhausted and at the end of your rope, it's very important that you not give in to your child's temper tantrum. If he sees that screaming for 20 minutes wears you down enough that you give in and give him the cookie he's asking for, he knows for next time to keep it up and you will cave. Stick to your guns.

Eliminate Triggers

• Of course, frustrations are a part of life and toddlers need to learn to cope with these trying moments. However, you can help defuse the situation a bit in the first place by trying to keep your child in a routine as much as possible, making sure she never gets too hungry and gets enough rest. Often, meltdowns happen when your child is overtired and cranky. It's also a good idea to give your toddler a bit of control over her life so she feels that her opinions count, such as letting her decide between apple slices and a banana for a snack, or choosing between two outfits for the day.