How to Deal with Your Child's Temper Tantrum in Public
A trip to the grocery store leaves me exhausted. My son loves to kick and scream as I place him in the shopping cart. His next plan of attack is everything on the shelves. I have to move him to the center of the aisle. The real tantrum starts when his eyes focus on a pack of Dora the Explorer Popsicles.
I am sure we have all been there. Your child first starts with the "I want that" or "mine." It is soon followed by slight gasps and a reddened face. Low cries soon turn into a full out scream. Before you know it your toddler is either rolling around the ice cream aisle or is flailing back and forth in the shopping cart. When you are finally able to pick up your child they kick you or slap you in the face. By now you have all these onlookers, what do you do?
Of course to stop the immediate cries and tantrum I could just give in and give him the Dora the Explorer Popsicles. Believe me there has been a time or two when I have gave in. However, this only sets up more problems for the future. You need to be consistent with your parenting. By giving in the only message I am sending is throw a tantrum and mommy will reward you.
Instead of giving in you need to be firm. Explain to your child why they may not have the item. Always stay calm. Children feed off of your own energy. The more upset you get the more upset they will get. Even if your child carries on with the tantrum continue your shopping.
Do not worry about the crowd you are attracting. Most children will settle down when they realize that you will not give in. If your child works themselves into an uncontrollable crying tantrum then console them. Talk with them in a soothing voice. Reassure them that you love them. When your child does calm down explain to them that their behavior is not acceptable.
The key to dealing with most temper tantrums is standing your ground and waiting it out. The child will eventually tire. In the future prevention of the temper tantrum may be your best option.
Published by Ebie Harris
Mother of two sweet little monster boys under the age of 3. Ebie has always had a passion for writing and is currently working on a humorous book about surviving the first years of parenthood. Ebie is als... View profile
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