A child's scream in a supermarket or on a playground makes the parents of a capricious toddler blush and get angry.
But a child's tantrum is not a theater for spectators, but a baby's cry for help.
The brain of a child under 5 years of age is physically incapable of instantly calming down: the cerebral cortex, which is responsible for self-control, is still forming at this time.
Instead of threatening or ignoring, try becoming an “emotional mirror” for your child.
The first phrase you should say is, "Are you angry because I didn't buy you candy?" It names the feelings and the reason for them.
This stops the chaos because the child feels understood.
It should be followed by this phrase: “Let’s think about what we can do.” It turns destructive energy into creative energy, forcing you to look for solutions.
Offer a choice: “Should we buy an apple now or take a candy home after dinner?”
The third phrase: "I'm here, we'll get through this" - gives a sense of security. Hug the baby if he doesn't resist, or just sit next to him.
After the tantrum, discuss the situation: "You're upset, but you can't yell at people. Let's agree on what to do next time."
It is important not to encourage whims with gifts, otherwise tears will become a tool of manipulation.
Parents who teach their children to recognize emotions lay the foundation for healthy relationships in the future.
