TANTRUMS!

Picture this. You're at a public place stuck in the most inconvenient situation together with a toddler who rolls on the ground and screams from the top of his lungs causing major embarrassment to others around. It's true that it only takes a short amount of time until your toddler figures out that tantrums are effective and that they can get away with it. Or so they think. First and foremost, tantrums should NOT be tolerated. But why does it happen? What can us parents do to control such inappropriate behaviour?

Isolation. When the screaming begins, try to get your toddler to the corner of a room or any relatively quiet area. Then try to not pay more attention than necessary so the child will soon learn that the tantrum will not lead to any advantages. Firmly but softly, explain to the child why he/she is put in an isolated place. Then go away for a few minutes and go back to the child when he/she is in a calmer state.

Ignore. Some tantrums are just absolutely unbearable and some will drive you completely insane! As awful as it sounds, try not to pay the child any attention whatsoever. Just stay calm and focused and carry on ignoring your little one. He/she will eventually get tired of all the screaming and shouting when no attention is being given.

Timing. Tantrums are not just when a child wants something and that something isn't being given to them. Sometimes, it can happen when a child is lacking sleep, hasn't eaten or isn't allowed to play. But having a regular schedule might make things a little easier. Managing your time as a parent is easy if you try to work around your child's daily schedule and actually stick to it.

Decisions. It will come to a stage when a parent will be saying "no" to the child constantly, but this might create a form of trauma and might restrict them developing their own imagination. It's only fair when a "yes" is said at times as this gives your child the chance to make a decision as well. It could give them the opportunity to express themselves and avoid that unwanted tantrum!

Praising. This can avoid future tantrums as this makes the child feel good about themselves. It is also an easier way to teach them right from wrong. It will make your child feel important at the right moment.