i hoped that i would never be the mom dragging her flailing, screaming child out of a store but alas, i have now had that experience. i cannot believe how often saying, "no" to ben completely flips him out. now that he's figured out how to ask to watch elmo, i feel like i'm bringing on the tantrums all the time. these tantrums include red-faced screaming, crying, hitting his head, falling down, etc, etc. i'm sure you can picture it. i knew that not having no afternoon nap or not having lunch, dinner, and snacks at a good time can make for more tantrums but getting my favourite babycenter email this morning did make me feel better:
It will be a year or two before your toddler leaves most of his tantrums behind. Until then, expect to deal with outbursts of anger and frustration on a regular basis. You can cut down on the frequency of tantrums by making sure your child gets enough sleep and eats well during the day. It's probably unrealistic to expect your energetic toddler to sit still for three square meals a day, so try giving your child a variety of foods throughout the day. Remember, a hungry, sleep-deprived toddler is a meltdown waiting to happen.
a year or two? phew. this is hard work.
8 comments:
The little boy I watch is 23 months old, so I'm getting to experience that lovely stage all over again. A few things that have helped me:
- don't let him get over tired. He goes from zero to melt down in no seconds flat when he's tired.
- Instead of saying no, try distracting him. This is easier at home where you have your own things, but if you can move his attention, he'll be less likely to freak.
- never, ever under any circumstances, attempt to do groceries when he's tired or hungry!! YOWSERS!
- Over pack. A little snack or favorite toy can go a long way towards keeping a toddler happy when you need a couple extra minutes.
You probably know all this stuff anyway, but that's my two cents ;)
Now if anyone knows how to stop 6 year old tantrums...
So enjoyable reading your blogs, Bec. I have been keeping up even if I don't post a comment. I can only imagine the tantrums, as I have never seen Ben throw one before but I have seen how he hits his head against the back of the couch cushions,
We have his Christmas gift wrapped and under the tree, and can't wait to give it to him! I hope he likes it...that may be a new distraction to avoid tantrums in the future.
Have a great day and we'll see you soon!
Love, Katie
Man I hear you on the tantrums. I hate them. He is so good when other people tell him no but as soon as Ray or I do its the crying, stomping of feet or throwing himself on the floor. I can't wait until they are done.
Hang in there, pal - you are doing a great job being Ben's mom!
i agree
i don't have any two cents to add, but i would like to say that i enjoy your brother's name on blogger being "your brother"
haha.
Ah yes, I had that experience as well, with Zoe throwing herself on the floor at the mall today. I just calmly stood and waited for the worst to be over, then picked her up. And I am not proud to say, I have been known to bribe her with a treat or small toy when we're in public and want to avoid the inevitable meltdown.
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