5 Tips for Dealing with Public Temper Tantrums
I love my kids . . . but I don’t always love being with my kids. In fact, there are times when I want to run in the opposite direction. Most of these times seem to be associated with screaming fits that take place in the middle of a public forum. I’ll never forget the last time my youngest had a breakdown at the grocery store checkout over a toy car I wouldn’t buy for him. Not only was I humiliated, but I was so exhausted that I could’ve easily fallen into a crying jag myself. Fortunately, there are ways to handle these trying parenting times without going crazy or running away from your kids. Here are five tips for dealing with public temper tantrums:-
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Consistency. If you say that you won’t buy or do something, don’t ever change your mind in the face of a temper tantrum – no matter what. The moment you cave in, you basically give your child permission to manipulate you with a temper tantrum every time a situation is not going as desired. Your little one knows you are embarrassed and is trying to use that public embarrassment against you. Don’t let it happen.
As at home, so in public. You’re going to have to set aside any fear of what other people are thinking, dive in, and handle the situation exactly as you would at home. If you have to raise your voice and use an authoritative tone, so be it. Your child needs to learn that there is no getting away with unacceptable actions just because you are in a public place.
Keep calm. If your child sees that you are getting worked up, that will be ammunition to accelerate the temper tantrum into full-blown mode. The best way to stay in control of the situation is to let your little one see that you are staying in control of yourself.
Preventative measures. The best way to deal with public temper tantrums is to avoid them in the first place, if you can. Have a talk with your children before you go out, and explain to them what is expected of their behavior, as well as what the consequences will be for misbehaving.
Positive reinforcement. In addition to outlining clear-cut consequences for bad behavior, it also helps to provide positive reinforcement after successful public outings. It doesn’t have to be a lot – sometimes just a warm hug and a sincere, “great job” are enough to promote good behavior when you go out.
Public temper tantrums can be one of the scariest and most stressful parts of raising children, and no one seems to avoid them altogether. Follow these tips to deal with your little one’s tantrums . . . and know that this, too, shall pass.
About the Author: When Patty Kleen is not busy with her children she can be found working with local businesses and recommending sites like Adecco USA temporary staffing services to help them fill their employee needs.
