Terrible twos coming up? How to deal with toddler tantrums
Now they’re walking and talking, your toddler’s asserting their independence more and more every day, as well as developing a strong willpower! Here are some tips on how to deal with toddler tantrums.
- Set clear rules and stick to them.
- Praise when they get it right, ignore when they get it wrong.
- Give them easy tasks they can do by themselves (putting on their wellies, tidying toys away).
- Offer simple choices (red or blue shirt, teddy or train, banana or apple).
- Avoid saying “no” too often. Try rephrasing refusals. For example, “Why don’t try this instead?” “Let’s see if you can finish the peas while I count to 10 then I’ll get your yogurt.”
- Stick to a daily routine with regular meals, naps, playtime, and quiet time, whenever possible.
- Make sure their bedtime routine is calming and consistent.
- Keep shopping trips short to avoid boredom and public meltdowns.
- Try to distract when you see something brewing. Timed right, a silly noise, funny face, or toy-swap can stop a tantrum in its tracks.
- If it’s too late and the screaming fits begin, try to stay calm.
- Cuddles can crack the toughest nut. Sometimes a little security is all they need.
- Don’t give in—your toddler’s pretty smart and if they think it’s worked, they’ll try it again.
- Hug it out when it’s over. Tantrums are a normal healthy sign of development and they won’t last forever.
Related articles
Why toddlers need to eat in between meals
Did you know? Toddlers may get up to 25% of the calories they need from snacks.
2 mins to read
Little injuries
Your baby’s small injuries: Small injuries may play a part in your baby’s daily life. The best solution is always to seek your doctor’s advice.
4 mins to read
How to provide a balanced diet for your toddler
It’s easy to fall into bad habits when preparing food for your toddler. Find out how some simple swaps and small changes can make his meals and mini meals healthier.
4 mins to read
Toddler stay home activities: Happy playtime ideas for your 12-18-month-old
Here are five activity ideas to keep your increasingly mobile one-year-old entertained during this extraordinary period.
4 mins to read
Discover how MOs work for your child’s immunity
As a parent, you want to protect your child now and in the future. That includes shaping his or her immune system to make it strong.
4 mins to read
A guide to family meals for toddlers
Wondering how you can enjoy family meals for toddlers? Eating together is a lovely way to bring everyone together and to teach your toddler about healthy eating.
2 mins to read
The Importance Of Eating Together
Many health professionals think that an enjoyable shared meal is an important aspect in good health.
2 mins to read
Raising a healthy eater: 14 ways to encourage healthy eating habits
The eating habits your toddler is developing now may stay with him as he gets older. It’s as much about the way you offer food as what you offer him.
11 mins to read
Toddler activities: Happy playtime ideas for your 18-24-month-old
Follow these five games to keep your toddler amused—and you sane—while you work from home.
5 mins to read
Eating Healthy With Kids – Setting Good Examples
Did you know? You’re a role model for your baby—what you eat and drink influences her choices.
3 mins to read
A to M of Nutrition
Learn what is important for your child’s nutrition, growth and development here, from A to Z!
9 mins to read
Why active play is good for your toddler
Did you know? Many two-year-olds spend too much time sitting still and don’t play outdoors every day.
3 mins to read
Is Partially Hydrolyzed Protein (PHP) suitable for your toddler?
Partially Hydrolyzed Protein (PHP) is a protein which has undergone a special process called hydrolysis.
2 mins to read
Lead by example by eating together with your toddler
Did you know? Being a good role model is the most effective way to get your toddler to try new food
5 mins to read
N to Z of Nutrition
Learn what is important for your child’s nutrition, growth and development here, from A to Z!
8 mins to read
Toddler milestones at 18-24 months
Your 18-24-month-old is learning new motor, language, and social skills every day. Here are some of the magical milestones you may see popping up on your social media feeds.
2 mins to read
What is Lactose Intolerance in Infants?
What is lactose?
3 mins to read
Introducing a cup is key to developing your toddler’s feeding skills
Your toddler has come a long way since that first spoonful of puree went in (and probably came straight back out again!).
9 mins to read
Dealing With Toddler Tantrums
Your toddler has a very strong desire to get things right.
6 mins to read
