What to do with a naughty child

If you think you are the only parent who has been besieged by temper tantrums, you are mistaken. Most children between the ages of two and four are prone to throwing tantrums. Here are some simple ways in which you can deal with this problem.

First, try to understand what kind of tantrum your child is throwing. Tantrums could be manipulative, could be a way of venting frustration or they could be just be way of showing temper. Children try to throw manipulative tantrums when they not get their own way. The best way to put an end to this kind of tantrum is to ignore the child completely. If you walk away from your child you will soon see an end to the tantrum. You may also ask the child to stay in their room until their tantrum has subsided.

You should never give in to the tantrum. This will only reinforce the behavior which in turn makes the child use a tantrum to blackmail you. To stop a tantrum, calmly explain to your child why you cannot fulfill what they want. If your child still does not listen try to divert your mind with some other activity and ignore them till they resume normal behavior.

You may find it hard to ignore a tantrum if you are at a friend's place or on an outing. Make your child understand why you cannot agree to the request and bring them home. If you are out shopping and your child throws a tantrum, do not give in to the demand. First, explain why you cannot satisfy the request. If your child persists, make it a point not to take them along on the next shopping trip. After they have missed going on one shopping trip, tell them that they can go along but you will not be buying anything for them. The second kind of tantrum arises out of verbal frustration. These tantrums take place when the child knows what they want but are not able to communicate the request clearly. This leads to frustration and ends in a tantrum. If you try ignoring this kind of tantrum, it just makes the child even more frustrated. Instead try helping the child to communicate their feelings. Once you've figured out what the problem it is easier to find a solution. With age as communication skills improve, children are less prone to throwing this type of a tantrum.

The third type of tantrum takes place when your child loses control of their emotions and starts throwing their temper. This is known as a temperamental tantrum. Just like verbal frustration tantrums, temperamental tantrums too are usually not solved simply by ignoring the child. Start by keeping yourself calm. Assure your child that you know that they are angry. Ask your child to express in words why they are angry. Let them know that you are aware of their request. Next, explain that you cannot agree to the request but you may offer an alternative solution.