3 Tips for Handling a Tantrum 

When your little one throws a kicking, screaming tantrum, stay calm and follow these guidelines.

  1. State the rules. Set a maximum of three behavioral rules (such as "Be gentle" or "Use your indoor voice"). If your child cannot comply, gently and quietly remove her from the situation. 

  2. Don't say "no." Too much repetition undercuts the word's meaning. Instead, distract your child and use "no" only for important situations. 

Communicate. Discuss problem behavior, but wait for your child to cool down before having a talk. He will listen and understand better if he's not upset or agitated.