Tantrums are commonly defined as an outburst of bad temper. As your toddler grows she/he begins to gain and assert her/his independence. Independence plays an important factor in your toddler’s emotional development as it allows your toddler to do things on her/his own increasing her/his self-esteem. Not all toddlers have tantrums but around 18 months, when they experience a surge of independence, difficult behaviour is common.
What causes tantrums and how can you overcome it?
*Tiredness- A toddler that has become overtired and exhausted finds it difficult to settle down especially at bedtime. A happy bedtime routine will help relax your toddler allowing her to feel calm and secure.
*Insecurity- Toddlers often suffer with separation anxiety which can last for months. It is a good idea to give your toddler a comfort object such as a blanket or a toy when you are unable to be with her/him. These objects will allow him/her to feel secure when you are unable to be around.
*Boredom- Your growing toddler spends more time awake then asleep which often leads to boredom. The attention span of your toddler is quiet short making it difficult for you to keep her constantly occupied.
*Frustration- Either your toddler is over ambitious in his/her daily activities or he/she is prevented by you in doing what he/she wants. It is important to recognise what your toddler wants and find as few reasons as possible for you to say no to him/her.
*Injury- Your mobile toddler is bursting with energy and is much more prone to falls. A little scratch can bring on serious sobbing. Always be sympathetic towards your toddler- he/she will forget about the injury faster if you comfort him/her.
* Teething-Between the age of 10 to 14 months your toddler’s molar teeth begin to cut through the gums. The pain of teething brings about a lot of discomfort making your toddler feel miserable. A chilled teething ring or a massage on the gums helps to alleviate discomfort and pain your toddler may be experiencing.
*Hunger- Due to the pain of teething your toddler may quiet often miss a meal resulting in a decrease in blood sugar levels. It is important to feed your toddler many small snacks during teething to prevent weight loss and irritability.
*Thirst- Your toddler may dehydrate due to the shortage of fluids making her/him more likely to be fretful and difficult to handle. Encourage plenty of fluid in-take –ideally plain water.
*Restriction of behaviour- Your toddler has developed new physical skills that allow him/her to explore the surrounding environment. However she/he can’t manage or is restricted in to do what she/he wants. This often results in tantrums as it is your toddler’s form of expression due to the overwhelming experience of frustration.
Coping with tantrums:
*It is important to understand your child as tantrums most often occurs when your toddler feels insecure or misunderstood. It is hard for your toddler to make himself/herself understood when he/she is unable to talk properly.
*Give your toddler lots of praise and encouragement when she/he behaves well. This will encourage her/him to behave.
*Be patient and do not expect to much from your toddler as her/his learning will be at a slower pace due to her/his short attention span.
*Redirect or distract your toddler when you notice a potential situation arising by singing or drawing her/his attention to the television.
*Allow your toddler a few choices like choosing his or her clothes from 2 of the sets that you have chosen. This will allow her/him to feel in control.
It is important to remember that tantrums are a part of your toddler’s development and not to take them personally as they are not aimed at you.