When your sweet little baby grows into a toddler and is first learning about the world, sometimes he or she will become frustrated and may act out in anger. The caring staff that works in our Toddler Care Program is experienced in handling these situations. For parents, ZerotoThree.com offered tips to help manage these challenging moments.
Preventing a meltdown
You can’t guarantee a toddler will never act out but you can lessen the chances by covering the basics. Make sure your child has had enough sleep and eats enough healthy food.
Plan ahead, based on your knowledge of your child.
For example, if your child gets anxious and acts out when meeting a lot of new relatives, show your child photos to help him or her get familiar with people he or she will see before a family event.
Let your child know about changes ahead of time
Parents may think this only applies to big changes, but it applies to small shifts too. Even the times of transition that accompany daily routines (getting ready for a meal, naptime, etc.) can be difficult for toddlers to manage and they need to be guided through them.
Recognize the feelings and redirect
It is important to let your child know that you understand the emotions that may have lead to aggressive behavior: "With younger children, put words to their feelings and then redirect them. "You are mad daddy turned off the TV. But look at this cool ball and how it bounces."
Offer strategies for working out anger
Let your child rip up paper (that you provide), draw an angry picture, or hit a pillow. Over time, a child will learn to recognize that he or she can use these strategies instead of acting out in anger by hitting, yelling or biting.
Let your child take a break
This isn't a timeout or punishment but a chance for your child to soothe him or herself.
