Losing your patience? Read 4 real, parent-tested ways to stay calm during toddler tantrums, including the famous big potato trick to save your sanity.
This is 4 Ways to Stay Calm During Toddler Tantrums
Toddler meltdowns are incredibly exhausting for any parent. If you constantly struggle to stay calm during toddler tantrums, you are certainly not alone. Recently, a group of real parents shared their absolute best survival secrets online.
Let’s explore four parent-tested methods to save your sanity today.
The Best Strategies to Stay Calm During Toddler Tantrums
You do not need a psychology degree to handle a massive meltdown. By using these practical tricks, you can stay calm during toddler tantrums much more easily.
1. Try the « Kind Ignoring » Tactic Stepping away is often the very best choice. Simply tell your child you are right there when they are ready for a big hug. After that, calmly go back to emptying the dishwasher or folding laundry. When tantrums do not earn attention, toddlers learn to calm themselves much faster.
2. Play Big Potato or Small Potato This brilliant mental trick changes everything. First, ask yourself if the situation is actually dangerous. If it is dangerous, it is a « big potato, » and you must intervene immediately. If it is just annoying, it is a « small potato ». Let them freak out safely while you take a deep breath.
3. Give Yourself a Parent Time Out Sometimes you need a break before you lose your temper completely. Firmly tell your child that you do not want to play with someone who is screaming. Next, walk into the next room for a quick two-minute break. Often, they will stop crying quickly and come find you.
4. Accept Your Own Emotional Limits You are not an endless fountain of patience. Sometimes, you will undoubtedly lose your cool. However, this actually teaches your child that adults have strict boundaries and emotional limits, too. The most important thing is explaining your reaction to them once everyone is calm.
Give Yourself Some Grace
Parenting a stubborn toddler is a very wild ride. By using these highly effective methods, you will successfully stay calm during toddler tantrums. Remember to always forgive yourself on the hard days!
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