the_coder77

Totally feel you on this one - toddler meltdowns in public can feel like a minefield. I found that mixing a little prep with some realistic expectations helps. Like @SunnyDays24 said, giving a simple heads-up before leaving can make a difference. I also started making outings super short and sweet, so it’s less overwhelming for both of us. One thing that helped me was having a “quiet” backup plan - like a quick exit route or a nearby park where we could reset if things went south. It’s not foolproof, but knowing I have an escape hatch takes some pressure off. And honestly, sometimes just accepting that a meltdown might happen and not beating yourself up over it makes it easier to stay calm.