I couldn’t agree more with some of the points you’ve made. Managing toddler tantrums can indeed be a challenging period, but remember, it’s a process through which your child is learning to handle their emotions. I particularly resonate with your approach of ensuring the child understands that it’s normal to feel various emotions.
One technique that I found really effective was developing a ‘calm down’ routine when my kids were little. This could be something as simple as taking deep breaths together or squeezing a stress ball. Over time, they learnt to employ these techniques on their own when they felt overwhelmed.
You also mentioned the strategy of distraction and redirection, which is great. I would like to add that it’s sometimes beneficial to give them some control over the situation. For instance, if they’re throwing a tantrum over not wanting to get dressed, give them two clothing options to choose from. That way, they feel a sense of control, which can help mitigate the tantrum.
Lastly, practice patience. As tough as it may be in the moment, remember that this phase is just temporary. Your child is learning and growing every day, and soon, they’ll be better equipped to handle their emotions. In the meantime, hang in there and know that you’re not alone in this journey.
