Children’s temper tantrums can be trying for both the child and the parent. Whether they happen at home, in a shopping mall, or at a family gathering, they are stressful and sometimes even embarrassing. Yet, temper tantrums are a normal part of childhood, especially between the ages of 2 and 6. What matters is how you react.
In this guide, we will offer simple and practical advice that parents in the UAE can apply immediately.
Why Do Children Have Temper Tantrums?
1. Limited communication skills
Children often lack the words to express their frustration, fear, or disappointment, and may therefore cry, scream, or throw objects.
2. Desire for independence
They want to make choices and control small aspects of their world.
3. Tiredness, hunger, or overstimulation
A child who is tired, hungry, or overwhelmed by events is much more likely to lose control.
4. Emotional development stage
Children are still learning to identify and manage their emotions. Temper tantrums are an integral part of this development.
Read also: How to support your child’s development?
9 Practical Steps to Manage a Tantrum?
1. Stay calm and steady
Your calmness helps your child calm down. Raising your voice usually only makes the situation worse.
Try: Inhale slowly… exhale slowly… then speak softly.
2. Don’t take it personally
Your child is not trying to embarrass you. They are overwhelmed by their emotions and struggling to handle the situation.
3. Keep them safe
If your child kicks, runs away, or throws objects:
- Move them to a safer space
- Remove dangerous items
- Stay close for reassurance.
4. Use short, simple sentences
During a crisis, long explanations are not understood.
Say:
- “I’m here.”
- “You’re safe.”
- “We’ll talk after you calm down.”
5. Allow space to release emotions
Sometimes a child needs a good cry. As long as they are safe, let them express their feelings.
6. Don’t give in to stop the crying
If their tantrum is caused by a toy you bought them just to silence the screaming, they will learn that tantrums are effective. Stay calm, firm, and consistent.
7. Redirect their attention
For young children, distraction works very well.
Example: “Look at this… shall we go check it out?”
8. Offer choices afterward
The choices give them a sense of control.
- “Water or juice?”
- “Walk or hold my hand?”
- “Blue shirt or white shirt?”
9. Validate their feelings
Recognizing emotions helps children feel understood. “You’re upset because you wanted to stay. I understand.”
After the Tantrum: What Should You Do?
1. Have a calm conversation
Explain what happened and how they can manage strong emotions next time.
2. Teach emotional skills
Simple tools can make a big difference:
- Deep breathing
- Counting to 5
- Using words like “I don’t like this”
3. Praise positive behavior
Focus on the moment they calmed down.
“I’m proud of how you settled. That was great.”
4. Maintain routines
Regular sleep and meal schedules reduce emotional overload.
5. Track patterns
If temper tantrums are frequent, note when they occur:
- Hungry?
- Tired?
- Overstimulated?
Identifying triggers helps prevent future meltdowns.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
Temper outbursts are generally normal. But consult a specialist if:
- Tantrums last more than 25–30 minutes.
- They happen multiple times a day.
- The child becomes extremely aggressive.
- Your child struggles with speech or communication.
- You feel overwhelmed or unsure.
Conclusion
Tantrums are not a sign of bad behavior, but rather evidence of emotional development. With patience, empathy, and consistent strategies, parents can support their children through these intense moments and teach them essential emotional skills for life.
Get Expert Help for Your Child’s Emotional Development!
If you feel your child’s tantrums are becoming difficult to manage or you want professional guidance tailored to your family, Dr. Olfa Koobar can help. With expertise in child behavior and emotional development, she offers compassionate, evidence-based support for parents in the UAE. Make an appointment today.
