Public meltdowns: The other side of parenting
Kids can be pleasant and then switch at any time; it's best to stay calm and approach with caution.
@curtvanheerden #SAMA28 #fyp #viralvideo #fypage #viraltiktok #youpage #parenting ♬ original sound - Curt van Heerden
After coming across the above video on TikTok, we felt obligated to share some essential tips or parent hacks we've learned along the way.
We can wholeheartedly admit that the parenting journey can baffle first-time parents, but it's always good to remember that pausing and staying calm can make a difference.
In the video above, we see a father surprised by his toddler's behaviour in public. Does he want to be carried, or does he want to go back down? Kids are like that; they are processing so much information sometimes that their mood may reflect some disorientation, which doesn't help us parents who are just doing our best to make them happy.
It might be frustrating to deal with a fussy kid at home, but experiencing a public tantrum is ten times worse. It pays to note that sometimes it takes different or several consequent approaches to dealing with a tantrum.
So, you have to try what works best for you. You might notice that what worked on one occasion might not work again in the same scenario.
Here are some parenting hacks that will help you deal with a tantrum.
1. Stay calm
This might be easier said than done, but believe us when we say it never pays to get irate and worked up because doing so will only elevate your already overstimulated child. Practice slow and steady breathing, count to ten if you have to, and approach the tantrum from a place of calm.
Remember not to come across as condescending. Despite what you may think, kids are wise, and even though they might not know what the word means, they can feel its meaning.
Instead of acting out yourself, think about why this tantrum could occur.
2. Finding out why and staying prepared
When you are out with the kids, sometimes that means you are going off schedule or routine. Perhaps your child is hungry, sleepy, overstimulated by their environment, hot or uncomfortable.
You should never leave home without a snack or some playful distractions such as colouring books, your child's favourite toy, puzzles, etc.
The Positive Parenting Solutions website suggests you focus on sensory play toys: "Textured balls and shaker eggs are perfect for keeping your younger toddlers and babies occupied, while fidget spinners and silly putty are great for older kids."
3. Assign them a task
Toddlers yearn for independence and control over situations. So, if you are out shopping, for example, make your child feel like they have authority by giving them the shopping list to hold or perhaps allowing them to pick the items off the shelves.
"Why not make it a fun experience by devising a grocery store scavenger hunt? Armed with a clipboard, crayon, and your grocery list, find fun ways to incorporate what you need with the scavenger hunt items she must find." (Positive Parenting Solutions)
You could also tell your child to search for different-coloured vegetables or fruits. This way, he/she can boost his/her ability to identify colours with food and also keep them occupied.
4. Distraction
We discussed giving your child a toy or activity, but distractions can also come in the form of surroundings.
Removing your child from where the tantrum erupted can be a great help. Not only does it help take your child's mind off whatever is triggering them, but it can also help you approach things from a state of calm and find out what's troubling them more efficiently.
Regardless of where the tantrum occurs, it is vital to remember that this is also part of growing up. Learning from past tantrums is also essential to doing better next time. Don't feel defeated when what you tried once doesn't work the second time, and it might just work the third time. It's just the way things go...
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