How to Manage Tantrums in Children: At What Age Do They Start and What to Do?

At what age do tantrums start?

Tantrums usually start around the age of 2 years. This is a critical time in child development, known as the ‘terrible twos’. During this phase, children are discovering their independence and ability to influence the environment around them. It is normal for them to face feelings of frustration when they are unable to communicate their wants or needs effectively.

Around this age, children’s verbal communication skills are still developing, which can lead to misunderstandings and frustrations. It is important to remember that a tantrum is a form of emotional expression and that young children are still learning to control their emotions.

The frequency and intensity of tantrums can vary from child to child. Some children may experience tantrums more rarely, while others may have them more frequently. It is critical for parents and caregivers to understand that this behaviour is a normal part of child development.

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At Green Tree, we offer a safe and stimulating environment where children from 1 to 3 years old can learn English in a natural and fun way. Our playful approach ensures that every day is full of new adventures and discoveries.

Factors that trigger tantrums

There are several factors that can trigger tantrums in young children. One of the most common is frustration. Children often have expectations and demands that cannot always be met, leading to a sense of helplessness and anger.

Another factor is fatigue. When children are tired, their ability to manage emotions and stress decreases significantly. A tired child is likely to be more prone to a tantrum than a rested one.

Lack of communication skills

Unable to express their feelings or needs verbally, children may resort to tantrums as a form of communication. This is especially common among younger children whose vocabulary is limited.

Environment and surroundings

A constantly changing or overstimulating environment can also contribute to tantrums. A child may feel overwhelmed by too much activity or noise, which can trigger an emotional episode.

How to manage tantrums

Understanding how to manage tantrums can make a big difference for both the child and the parent. One effective strategy is to remain calm. Children tend to copy the emotions of the adults around them, so if you stay calm, they are more likely to do so too.

Ignoring tantrums can be another useful strategy, as long as there is no risk of harm to the child or others. Sometimes children have tantrums to get attention, and if they see that they don’t get the reaction they are looking for, they may stop.

Redirecting attention

Redirecting a child’s attention to a different activity or object can help de-escalate the situation. Giving them something new to focus on can be incredibly effective.

Breathing techniques

Teaching children deep breathing techniques can be helpful. You can practice with them when they are calm so they know how to use these techniques during a tantrum.

Importance of consistency

To manage tantrums effectively, it is crucial to maintain consistency in your responses. Children need to know what to expect when they have a tantrum. If the response of parents or caregivers is unpredictable, it can further fuel unwanted behaviour.

Consistency also applies to daily routines. Having a predictable schedule for meals, naps and activities can help reduce the number of tantrums. When children know what comes next, they are less likely to be frustrated.

It is critical that all caregivers are on the same page when it comes to tantrum management strategies. Lack of consistency between different caregivers can confuse the child and make behaviour management more difficult.

Tools and resources for parents

Today, there are a variety of tools and resources available to help parents and caregivers manage tantrums effectively. For example, there are books and guides that offer evidence-based approaches to managing difficult behaviours.

Mobile apps can also be useful. Some apps are designed to help parents track their child’s behaviour and offer personalised recommendations on how to manage tantrums.

Support groups and courses

Parent support groups can provide a valuable network of people going through similar experiences. Sharing strategies and advice with other parents can be very helpful.

In addition, there are local or online courses and workshops that teach parents effective tantrum management techniques. These courses can be a great way to learn new skills and get professional support.

Preventing tantrums

While it is not always possible to prevent all tantrums, there are certain strategies that can reduce their frequency. One of the most effective is to anticipate your child’s needs. If you know that your child tends to have tantrums when hungry, make sure you always have a snack with you.

Another strategy is to give choices. Allowing children to choose between two safe and acceptable options gives them a sense of control and can reduce frustration. For example, you might ask, ‘Do you want to get dressed first or eat breakfast first?’

Set clear expectations

Setting clear expectations and communicating them to your child can help. When children know what is expected of them, they are less likely to feel confused or frustrated.

Positive reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is another effective tool. Praising your child when they handle their emotions appropriately can encourage more desirable behaviour. Remember to be specific in your praise so that the child understands exactly what he or she is doing right.

Tantrums are a normal part of child development and, although they can be challenging, understanding their origin and learning how to manage them can make a big difference in the daily lives of parents and children. Always remember that each child is unique and what works for one may not work for another. Patience and understanding are key to navigating these difficult moments and helping your child learn to manage their emotions in a healthy way.

English is learned through play at Green Tree!

At Green Tree, we provide a safe and nurturing environment where children from 1 to 3 years old can learn English in a fun and natural way. Our play-based approach ensures that every day is full of laughter and discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my child’s tantrum occurs in a public place?

Tantrums in public places can be especially stressful. If this happens, try to stay calm and, if possible, remove your child from the stressful environment. Take your child to a quiet place and give them space to calm down. It is important to maintain a supportive stance and not give in to unreasonable demands just to stop the tantrum.

Are tantrums a sign of a bigger problem?

In most cases, tantrums are simply a normal part of development. However, if tantrums are extremely frequent, prolonged or violent, it may be helpful to consult a professional. Sometimes this behaviour can be a sign of an underlying problem such as delayed language development or emotional problems.

How long do tantrums usually last?

The length of a tantrum can vary, but generally, they last between 2 and 15 minutes. Although it may seem much longer when you are in the middle of one, it is important to remember that this is a way in which the child is trying to communicate his or her feelings. Staying calm and applying coping strategies can help reduce the length and frequency of tantrums.

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