You read yesterday about some tips to alleviate some of the common causes of temper tantrums. Today we’ll talk about some more tricks to make everybody’s lives a little easier.
Nobody likes to go to the doctor. Your kids are no different. They may feel some anxiety about having to get shots every time they show up at the doctor’s office. Try to be empathetic. Shots are no fun and can be frightening for kids. Let them know that it’s ok to be scared, but that it’s important to get shots so that they don’t get sick. Try giving them something to look forward to after to make the experience a little less miserable. Take them out to ice cream or to go play at the park for doing such a great job at the doctor’s.
Haircuts have always been another battle at our house! The second the clippers come out he goes running! When he was little I would stick him in the high chair so he couldn’t get away, but he quickly outgrew that. This is one of those it is important to work on since there are scissors close to their little eyes and ears. If they are kicking and screaming, not only could you end up with quite the haircut, but it could potentially be very dangerous too. You may want to take them with you the next time Mommy gets a haircut. Then it doesn’t seem like as big of a deal. While you are working on their hair let them have a doll or stuffed animal that they can play with while you cut. Your little girl will love doing her baby’s hair at the same time. It may help to get them interested in a show while you cut their hair. It changes the focus and keeps their attention long enough to at least do a quick trim. If you are worried about doing it by yourself try taking your child to a salon that is specifically geared towards children. The stylists are trained to deal with the temper tantrums that come with haircuts and have lots of tricks to keep your kids occupied long enough to cut and style their hair.
Ever have one of those toy store break downs? As a single parent I can’t afford to get my son a toy every time we go to the store. Then again, I wouldn’t even if we did have the money! Kids need to learn that they can’t have everything they want, but try telling that to your three year old! If you have to go by the toys explain to them what your expectations are and that you aren’t getting any toys this time. “I know you’d really love to have a new toy today, but we are only getting a present for your friend’s birthday party this weekend. Maybe we can get a new one another time. While we’re looking why don’t you see how many green toys we can find!” That way they are still having fun, even though they don’t get to bring home a new toy that day.
Temper tantrums are hard for any mom to deal with, but using these tricks may help cut back on the day to day challenges you face with your toddler. Try them out and see if they work! You just might be surprised how much easier your life can be!