Good Parenting

It’s hard to take a trip to the mall without seeing a parent dealing with temper tantrums being thrown by their child. You know the scene, embarrassed parent or caregiver, child lying on the floor kicking and screaming. Those that don’t have children wonder why that adult doesn’t get that child under control. Those of us with children give that adult a sympathetic nod, we have been there.

Adults need to understand that children of the toddler age are not responsible for their own behavior. They are busy learning about their world and how they fit in it. Disciplining a child of this age is absurd in the opinion of this author. It also does us no good to become embarrassed in a public situation and resort to treating our child in a way that is not healthy.

Dealing with temper tantrums is easier when we can avoid some of the common instigators of the tantrum itself. Have you ever seen a parent trying to drag a child through Wal-Mart well after that child should be in bed? How about a child in a grocery store surrounded by food when they haven’t had their dinner yet.

Anticipate your child’s needs and make sure they’re met before taking them. Don’t take them shopping when they are hungry, thirsty or tired. They will respond the only way they know how, and that may be kicking and screaming. When you do take your child out, make sure they’re comfortably warm or cool depending on the weather. Pack a snack and a drink. Make sure their feet are properly attired.

Perhaps you have to wait in line at DMV. Bring along things your toddler can quietly play with. It’s nice to have a “busy” bag or tote full of things that are used for outings. On the flip side, if there is a toy your child can’t leave home without, by all means bring it.

If your child does erupt in bad behavior, dealing with temper tantrums can be easier if you take them away from the scene. You can take the child out to the car or perhaps a bathroom to get them a little more out of the public eye.

Do try to stay calm. If you are mortified and lash out in anger at your child you are only going to fuel your embarrassment over your actions as well as that of your Childs. Remember there is not a parent or caregiver among us who has not suffered embarrassment from having to tend to a temperamental child.

You may feel like the world is staring. In all honesty, you have sympathizers who are rooting for you! I can’t walk by a child having a tantrum without giving the adult with that child a look meaning to boost them up and let them know they aren’t alone. Remember that dealing with temper tantrums is a rite of parenting. Hang in there!