Toddler Tantrums

As a primary school teacher, there are a lot of techniques we use to help support children to become independent, tolerant and empathetic towards others. For the most part, this is about talking to children and helping them to see how their choices impact themselves and others.

In my view, this is no different than dealing with a rumbunctious and spirited toddler who is strong willed and will not take no for an answer. Whilst a child at this age is, in the first instance, only able to consider their own needs, it is important to start teaching a child from an early age that mum is in charge and she knows best. This is particularly important when it comes to sleep and food, the cornerstones of a happy life with children.

When talking with toddlers I always like to bend down and talk eye to eye. This means you don’t have to raise your voice and they can use your facial expressions to help understand your message. However when your toddler is tantruming and has stopped listening, little chats will fall on deaf ears.

Here are just a few techniques I use when a child has stopped listening;

• ‘Say and walk away’ - give the instruction and walk away

• ‘When and then’ - when you do this, then you can have that

• Only giving one instruction at a time and not backing down until it is done

• Positive reinforcement when choosing to do the correct thing - lots of cuddles and love and a statement like “what a good choice you made to ….”

If you are struggling with a willful toddler who isn’t listening and spends what feels like most of your day pushing every boundary, I can help you. I have many varied ways to help you get control back and reinstate structure and harmony to your household.