Relationships

Temper Tantrums

Temper tantrums are a way a young child lets out strong emotions before he or she is able to express them in socially acceptable ways. They start at about 1 year of age and continue until age 2 to 3. Parents can learn from their child by understanding what caused the temper tantrum to erupt.

What causes temper tantrums?

As a young child learns more and becomes more independent, they want to do more than they can physically and emotionally manage

This is frustrating to the child
Temper tantrums are worse and happen more often when a child is hungry, tired, or sick

What else should parents know about temper tantrums?

Temper tantrums generally happen less often as children get older.

Talk with your child’s healthcare provider if any of the following happen: Temper tantrum are severe, last long, or happen very often. Your child has a lot of trouble talking and can’t let you know what he or she needs. � Temper temperrums continue or get worse after 3 to 4 years of age.
Your child harms himself or herself or others during tantrums.

How to Prevent Temper Tantrums

Stick to routines for meals and sleep times

Be reasonable about what to expect from your child
Prepare your child for changes or events by talking about them before they happen
Let your child know your rules and stick to them