Bright Horizons - Seattle Review

Preschoolers might not yet have the life experiences or the cognitive abilities of adults, but they’re able to feel a full range of emotions, including anger. Depending on the situation and their temperament, preschoolers react to anger with behaviors ranging from a few tears to a full-on toddler tantrum. As a parent figuring out how to deal with tantrums, you might feel a range of emotions, such as empathy, confusion, or even frustration, in response to your child’s behavior.

How to Deal with Tantrums & Negative Preschooler Behavior

The Offensive Approach

So, how can you help your young child handle powerful emotions? First, try to see things from his or her perspective. Preschoolers have only lived on this planet for 36 to 48 months – not very long in the big scheme of things. Their limited life experience, verbal skills, and emotional development make it difficult for them to share, take turns, and understand another’s point of view.

Try to create a “yes” environment that reduces frustration and sets your child up for success. Young children, in general, have little control over their lives. Set up your home to allow for maximum independence and give your child choices whenever possible.

Defensive Strategy

The proactive strategies listed above can reduce feelings of anger for your child, but won’t entirely eliminate them. Frustrations are part of life for children and adults alike. Below are a few suggestions to help you and your child get through a toddler tantrum or “meltdown” moment successfully:

• Establish safety. Safety is always the first priority. Gently restrain and move your child if you think he or she might hurt someone. If your child is exhibiting negative behavior in a public place, move to a quiet area.

Read this full article or browse through the related information below for more tantrum tips.