How to Treat Your Child’s Temper Tantrums Naturally: Tips for Calming and Soothing Your Child

How to Treat Your Child’s Temper Tantrums Naturally:  Tips for Calming and Soothing Your Child
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What Is a Temper Tantrum?

Temper tantrums are defined as a sudden display of extreme anger and/or frustration and may include biting, breath holding, crying, hitting, kicking and screaming. They are most common in children from the ages of 1 to 4 years old, and occur equally in boys and girls. It is a normal response from a young child that does not have the skills to express their feelings in another way. It can also be a reaction from a child that is overly tired or stressed. Temper tantrums are usually short and, with proper care, the child can be calmed down in a just a few minutes.

How to Treat Naturally

Although temper tantrums in young children are common, if they are occurring on a daily basis, there are some natural remedies that may help lessen the frequency. You can start by changing their diet. Eliminate sugar and processed foods for two weeks and see if there is any noticeable change in behavior. Chocolate, especially, can trigger difficult behavior in some children. Chamomile tea is known for its calming effects and can be given to children in small amounts. For a child under the age of 5, it is recommended to give them no more than ½ cup of chamomile tea per day. The chamomile and the warmth of the tea should help calm and soothe your child. As your child calms down, hold them close, speak to them in a soft, calm voice, and help them express themselves. Once your child is calmed down, find an activity to divert their attention and spend a little time with them.

How to Prevent

There are many ways you can help prevent your child’s temper tantrums. It is important to follow a daily routine as much as possible. Children like to know what to expect everyday, it is comforting. Make sure your child gets plenty of sleep, especially if you have a busy day planned ahead. Whenever possible, allow your child to make a decision between two options, such a milk or juice. If your child is playing, give a “five-minute warning” letting them know the activity will be ending, and state what is happening next. Purely for the sake of your sanity, avoid situations that are likely to trigger temper tantrums, such as the toy or candy aisle at the store

Keep in mind that temper tantrums are common during this developmental stage of childhood. Handling your child’s temper tantrums calmly and with patience is the best remedy. Most children grow out of temper tantrum by the age of 4. However, if your child’s temper tantrums continue into the school-age years, you should schedule an appointment with your pediatrician.

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Photo Credit: babble.com

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