1. About.com
  2. Parenting & Family
  3. Preschoolers

Video:How to Avoid Temper Tantrums

with Alexandrea Day

Temper tantrums can erupt in a moments notice. And, as any parent knows, a child's out-of-control temper can be incredibly challenging to control. See our tips for dealing with temper tantrums by learning to avoid them altogether.

Transcript:How to Avoid Temper Tantrums

Temper tantrums are a big concern to parents. I teach a class on the best ways to avoid them.

Set a Good Example

Here is tip #1: Always set a good example. If your child sees you flying off the handle with the slightest provocation, he/she will do exactly the same.

Keep Calm

Tip #2: Always keeps calm; it really does make a difference.

Divert Your Child's Attention

Tip #3: You can always divert a temper tantrum from starting. If you feel your child is starting to get themselves upset and get into a temper tantrum, try and divert them; show them something outside or something else in the room. Just try to get their mind away from what they were getting upset about.

Make Your Child Laugh

Tip #4: Use humor. If you can get your child to laugh they are more likely to stop what they were doing. For example, make a silly face or pretend to trip over something. This always makes toddlers laugh.

Show Consistency

Tip #5: Be consistent. Always deal with your toddlers behavior consistently and they will know exactly what to expect.

Though temper tantrums can’t be avoided all together, if you apply these tips you will lessen their frequency.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved. 

A part of The New York Times Company.