Even the most easy going toddler can have a meltdown in public. Is it best to give in to their demands? Or should you just make a quick exit and go home?
According to the experts, neither option is ideal, although I suspect that most parents have tried them. I know I have with my toddler (well, 18-months, but he's clearly starting the 'Terrible Twos' early!).
Raising your voice is another common technique that only serves to escalate matters. You will only succeed in distressing your child further (if she even pays attention to you) and drawing more attention to yourself.
So what does work? It depends on the child: there's no 'one size fits all' answer. Try these suggestions the next time your toddler decides to let everyone know he/she isn't happy:
1. Before tantrum stage is reached, ask yourself if what you want your toddler to do is really necessary. Rather than have a battle, it might be easier to compromise. Does she need to have her coat zipped up? It might be easier for you both if she was helped to put her coat on, but didn't have it done up.
2. Tantrums often happen because children become overwhelmed by tiredness or hunger and can't express this. Don't go out if it's just before nap time or if it coincides with a meal. If this really can't be avoided, keep it short and bring a healthy snack.
3. Set the ground rules beforehand and stick to them. If you are going to the supermarket to buy food, tell your toddler in the car that this is what will be happening. It's important that you don't give in to their demands when you're in the shop, however they behave.
4. Make it fun. The weekly food shop can be a boring experience for toddlers, so get your little one to choose which bag of apples or loaf of bread she'd like. Get her to cross off each item on your shopping list. By letting her feel like she has a bit of control, you'll keep her on your side.
5. Ignore strangers. Rather than apologising to onlookers, it's better to move your child to a safe, quiet area of the shop. There, you can pretend to focus on something else until the tantrum comes to an end.
Remember, this is a stage like any other. Before you know it, you'll have a preschool child who can calmly tell you just what she's thinking, and tantrums will be a thing of the past!
