"Not only has he learnt to walk and talk, but now he's learnt to stamp his foot, argue, scream until he's bright red and embarrass me in public on a regular basis. What's happened to my child?"
Tantrums - when a child shouts and screams to get what they want - may start around eighteen months, are common at two years old and are much less common at four. Very young children are often not able to tell you things as much as they want to and their frustration may come out as a tantrum. Tantrums are more likely to happen if a child is tired, hungry or uncomfortable. Tantrums also often happen in busy, public places, which can be embarrassing and add to the parents' stress. If you are worried about the way your child is acting talk to your Health Visitor or Doctor.
It could happen anywhere, but watch out for a tired or hungry child at a time when they want something that you have said "no" to, like when out shopping or during a day out.
Keep calm, think about whether your child needs food or rest. Give your child attention and try to find a quiet place or some way of getting their attention. Don't give in, but try to understand your child's feelings.
Try to give your child a choice or a way out. Be calm and understanding. Keep it simple and clear. Praise your child for calming down.
Avoid long shopping trips or tiring days out. It often helps to give your child extra cuddles or talk to them more. Try to see causes for tantrums in the day ahead and think of ways to avoid them.
