Tame the tantrums of the terrible two

The terrible two can be a stressful time for everyone, young children seem to start when their mothers are busiest. We have all seen the ghastly tantrums that young children can often have in public places with their poor mothers trying to cope as best they can. Well, it happens to all of us sometimes, but it can often be prevented. By now your child is developing rapidly and becoming quite a small character, on good days a lot of mischief, on bad days a frustrated tornado!

My first child was a very happy and placid child, but at times I could see how frustrated she was. Without sufficient knowledge or language to communicate fully, but wanting to demonstrate their independence. I came up with a simple solution that often avoided problems, frustrations, and conflicts.

I started to offer 2 options where I didn’t care, for example, when dressing: “Which arm do we put first, the right or the left”? She loved the game, and we both ended up laughing, much better than tears and frustration; he also learned his left from his right. Asked in a fun and relaxed way, this can become a game that can be extended to many areas, it is also a teaching opportunity with a solution. The child feels that he has some control, which is what he longs for at this stage of his development, and the conflict takes away the heat. I’ve since seen this method listed as “options” as an official parenting method, but came across it by accident, just looking for a solution.

Talking to kids while they shop is fun for both of you as they get older, keeps them from getting bored, and makes their journey easier and more enjoyable for everyone. For example, “Can you see the tomatoes?” Or “let’s count 6 carrots”, it only takes a few minutes, but makes shopping a happy one. Stimulated children are more likely to enjoy shopping and less likely to get bored, irritated, and have tantrums. It also becomes a learning situation which is an added bonus. If possible, don’t take shopping trips when your child is tired or hungry and try to include him in the conversation.

Hope these tips give you some ideas and make your life and shopping trips more fun. you will see an amazing difference in your child and the cooperation he will gain. Your little one will get more involved and enjoy shopping and find it less stressful.