It's tough to enforce rules when kids throw a tantrum. But learn the one big reason parents should stand their ground during these meltdowns. Imagine throwing a tantrum... and getting everything you demanded. You might think this is ideal for your child, but being too lenient can often lead to adverse consequences. Giving in all the time during a power struggle may lead her to believe that negative actions are the way to get anything. She learns that throwing a fit means mom and dad break down and oblige. So, she might use this method more often than not to get what she wants. The … [Read more...]

Dealing with meltdowns can be difficult, but it's during these times your angry child NEEDS you. Here are strategies to help you handle it. My kids had been so excited to work on the school garden. You couldn't peel them away from digging and turning the soil. Other than the occasional snack, they wanted to keep shoveling and pulling weeds. And then it happened: One of them didn't want to leave. Whereas the other two were ready to go home, he wanted to stay and dig. So, my husband and I did the typical moves: we showed empathy and tried to make the transition light. We even gave him … [Read more...]

Struggling with your child's meltdowns and angry outbursts? Get a guide to handling tantrums and learn what to do when they happen. I felt helpless. My son had been throwing a tantrum for over an hour. Nothing worked. I tried soothing him to no avail, and completely ignoring him didn't do the trick, either. Distraction, taking away toys, or offering treats made no difference. And it seemed like I'd leave every outing carrying a wailing toddler, making my quick getaway. We've all been there. The defiance, the crying-so-hard-they-can't-breathe, the flailing of the arms and legs. … [Read more...]