Temper tantrums are an expected part of a child’s development, typically beginning around age 1 and peaking between 2 and 4 years old. During this time, children are still learning to regulate their emotions and express themselves verbally, which can result in frustration when they are unable to communicate their needs or desires.
Tantrums are most commonly triggered by situations where the child’s desires are not being met, such as when they are told “no” or when they are too tired or hungry.
While it can be difficult to watch your child go through a tantrum, it is important to remain calm and composed. Children often look to their caregivers for cues on how to react, so modeling calm behavior can help teach them to self-regulate. It is helpful to acknowledge their feelings, saying something like, “I understand you are upset,” while setting clear boundaries.
Distracting your child with a new activity or offering a comforting item, like a favorite toy or blanket, can often redirect their attention and help calm them down. It’s also essential to remain consistent in how you handle tantrums—responding the same way each time helps your child understand expectations and consequences.
