Temper Tantrums (18 months to 3 years)
A tantrum from a child this age becomes more dramatic. Expect screaming, crying, protest, slamming toys and doors, throwing objects, self injurious behaviours and lying on the ground with flailing arms and legs. The most effective and appropriate responses by the parent of a child this age are “redirection”, “extinction”, and “wait out”. For safety reason, stay within eyesight of the child. The “teachable moment” is not during the tantrum but sometime after you and your child have cooled down. “Withdrawal of a privilege” or “tracking” may be appropriate and effective for a child at the upper end of this age group.
Next posting – dealing with tantrums from children 3 years to 6 years old