Beautiful Ways to Parent Through Tantrums

 
It's a universal parenting dilemma.  What do we do about all of those tantrums?  Well, let me assure you that I have been on the receiving end of many a tantrum.  Tantrums of epic proportions.  And I survived each and every one of them.  With my kids now ages 12, 15 and 17, they have outgrown them {for the most part ;-)}!

Being on the other side of tantrum-territory, I suppose it could seem easy to say, "Ride out the storm.  Be there.  Be compassionate." Yep, way too easy.  So I've compiled a group of fabulous posts about parenting through tantrums.  When we change how we view tantrums, we're much more equipped to help our child learn how to navigate the big feelings that lead to them! 

Emotional Hiccups

I adore this post by Patty Wipfler, that appeared in mothering.  She recommends viewing tantrums as an "emotional hiccup".  I rather like that, don't you? 


Peaceful Corner

Is there any other better antidote to emotions spiraling out of control than a peaceful corner?  That is one of the strategies advocated by Shawn at Awesomely Awake via The Golden Gleam!

 
 
8 Tips from Toddler Approved
 
Finally, check out these eight fabulous tried and true techniques to help deal with tantrums.  Toddler Approved shows the way!  You know what I especially love?  How Kristina recognizes that what works for one family might not work for another! For sure!  A non-judgment zone...just the way we like it!  So...as I've heard so many times, "If it doesn't apply, let it fly!"
 

 
 
 
How do you cope with tantrums?  How do you help your child cope?  We'd love to hear about it!
 
As always, from Kidlutions, we wish you Happy Parenting!
 

 
 
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Comments

naomi said…
I think to myself this child needs something and I need to understand what it is so I can help them I dont see it as being obstructive.
I like the way you think, Naomi!

~Wendy
Unknown said…
Thanks for posting this article. I just found it - and your blog - through pinterest. I have to say it was perfect timing to stumble upon this. I've been very stressed out lately with how to deal with the tantrum situation. I have 2 boys, ages 4 and 6, and both are very independent. I've been trying to use redirection to distract from them hurting others when they're upset and taking them somewhere quiet and hugging and letting them talk it out. It seems to help them tremendously. I have gotten quite a bit of criticism from other close family for it but frankly I don't care! :)
They are my children, they are loved, respected and cared for. There's no need for anyone else to poke their noses in.
Sorry to be so long-winded but I'm just so grateful to see something other than abusing and threatening your kids into submission.
Stephanie,

I'm glad you have found us! You are being an emotionally responsive parent and there is plenty of research to back up your approach. There are NO studies that prove aversive guidance (spanking, time-outs) change behavior for the long haul. If they did, a parent would never have to spank or do a time-out more than once. Think about it.

Do we punish kids for not knowing how to tie shoes? NO! We teach them. Do we punish them for not knowing the ABC's? NO! We teach them! We recognize that kids have to be a certain age before they can learn certain things. Why do we think it is any different for behavior? The only difference is the way it makes US FEEL and the negative connotations we start to ascribe to our kids (disrespectful, rude, unruly, surly, etc.). When we get really comfortable with the fact that parenting is NOT always comfortable...and we allow our kids...and ourselves to make mistakes, we get much better at the beautiful dance that is parenting. Pouring LOVE IN gets much better results than pouring PUNISHMENT ON.

Stay tuned because the new book, "TIME IN, NOT TIME OUT" that I co-authored with Dr. Lynne Kenney and Ava Parnass will be coming out soon!

Best,
Wendy =)

PS...Thanks for being brave enough to parent by heart. You will be in good company here.
Kristina said…
Thanks so much for sharing my post along with several other great ones!!!

This topic is one I think about every day since every kid is different and every day is too :) Keeps parenting entertaining, right?
Kristina,

It is always my pleasure to share great information with parents. Thanks for your great blog!

Wendy =)

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