Friend or Foe?

They only seem to happen in the most public places or in front of the most important people. Eliciting expressions of sympathy, but more often disgust, a child's temper tantrum can be an uncomfortable and downright mortifying experience for any parent.

Characterized by kicking, screaming, hitting and the universal "slump and crawl" temper tantrums usually occur in children between the ages of one and three. Tantrums are usually interpreted to mean the child is "spoiled" and the caregiver out of control when in actuality, they are coping mechanisms for children who are experiencing a conflict caused by their inability to communicate clearly and effectively. Experts in the field of early childhood development unanimously agree that tantrums are a normal, healthy component of a child's growth.

Certainly, tantrums will never be desirable, but we encourage you to embrace the challenge when one occurs. Understand that a tantrum is an act of frustration, as opposed to one of defiance and use it as an opportunity to teach your toddler self-control and decision making skills. Clicking on the links below will provide you with insightful information about what causes tantrums, prevention methods and how best to respond when your little one decides to take the stage!