Coping With A Child’s Temper Tantrums

Temper tantrums are a father’s worst nightmare. Most children throw themselves on the floor, cry, or scream to get what they want. Some dads feel helpless as they do not know what to do, others gets angry, while some are embarrassed when their kids act out in public.

Before reacting, dads need to remember that most temper tantrums occur because children are hungry, thirsty, or craving for attention and do not know how to express themselves. Dads need to tune in to their parenting skill and remind themselves that their child is probably expressing the right feelings through inappropriate behavior.

David Cross, a single dad from Syracuse, New York has experienced many temper tantrums thanks to his 2 year-old daughter. He says, “My daughter wanted juice for breakfast. When I gave it to her, she started crying for a glass of milk instead. The glass of milk promptly was thrown on the floor as well, followed by bouts of crying.”

Self control in such situations is of prime importance. Talking calmly or ignoring the tantrum is a great way of setting a good example. Many child psychologists agree that trying to understand the reason for the tantrum is a step in the right direction to avoid uncomfortable circumstances in the future.

The best way to handle a temper tantrum in a public place is by taking the child to a quiet room, bathroom, or even the car if necessary to help them get through it. After the worst is over it’s best to sit down and explain to the child that tantrums are unacceptable.