terrible twos tantrums
The terrible twos are a phase that most parents dread, and for good reason. This is the time when toddlers between the ages of 1 to 3 years old start to assert their independence and test the boundaries set by their parents. It is also the time when tantrums become a regular occurrence, leaving parents exhausted and frustrated. But what exactly are terrible twos tantrums, and how can parents navigate through this challenging phase? In this article, we will delve into the world of terrible twos tantrums and provide tips on how to handle them.
What are Terrible Twos Tantrums?
Terrible twos tantrums are emotional outbursts characterized by crying, screaming, kicking, and sometimes even hitting. They can be triggered by various things, such as not getting what they want, being told no, or feeling overwhelmed. These tantrums can last anywhere from a few minutes to over an hour and can happen anywhere, anytime. They can be especially challenging for parents when they occur in public places.
Why do Tantrums Happen during the Terrible Twos?
During the terrible twos, toddlers are going through a lot of changes, both physically and mentally. They are learning to walk, talk, and express themselves. They are also becoming aware of their own needs and desires, but they are not yet able to communicate them effectively. This can lead to frustration, which can manifest in the form of tantrums.
Toddlers at this age are also learning about boundaries and testing them to see how far they can go. They want to assert their independence, but they are still dependent on their parents for everything. This can cause a clash between what they want and what their parents want, leading to tantrums.
In addition, toddlers at this age have a limited attention span and are easily overwhelmed. They may not have the words to express their feelings, so they resort to tantrums as a way to release their emotions.
How to Handle Terrible Twos Tantrums?
1. Stay Calm
The most important thing to remember when dealing with terrible twos tantrums is to stay calm. As challenging as it may be, getting angry or frustrated will only escalate the situation. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that this is just a phase and it will pass.
2. Acknowledge their Feelings
Toddlers may not have the words to express their feelings, but they still need to know that their feelings are valid. Acknowledge their emotions by saying things like, “I can see you’re feeling upset” or “I understand that you’re angry.” This will help them feel heard and understood.
3. Offer Choices
Toddlers at this age want to feel in control, so offering them choices can help prevent tantrums. Instead of saying no, offer them alternatives. For example, if they want to play with a toy that is not safe, offer them another toy or activity instead.
4. Distract and Redirect
When you see a tantrum starting, try to distract and redirect your child’s attention. This can be done by pointing out something interesting or engaging in a different activity. This technique works best with younger toddlers who can easily be distracted.
5. Be Consistent with Rules
Consistency is key when dealing with toddlers. Make sure to set clear rules and boundaries and stick to them. If you give in to a tantrum once, your child will learn that tantrums are an effective way to get what they want, and they will continue to do it.
6. Use Positive Reinforcement
Praising your child for good behavior can go a long way. Instead of focusing on the negative, try to catch your child being good and praise them for it. This will reinforce positive behavior and encourage them to continue it.
7. Avoid Triggers
If you know certain things, such as hunger or lack of sleep, can trigger a tantrum, try to avoid those situations. Make sure your child is well-rested and fed before going out, and always have snacks on hand to prevent hunger-induced tantrums.
8. Stay Firm but Gentle
When dealing with a tantrum, it is important to stay firm but gentle. Avoid using physical punishment or yelling, as this can cause more harm than good. Instead, use a calm and firm tone of voice to communicate your expectations.
9. Teach Coping Strategies
As toddlers grow and develop, they will learn how to cope with their emotions. You can help them by teaching them simple coping strategies, such as taking deep breaths or counting to 10. This will give them a way to manage their emotions in a more constructive manner.
10. Seek Support
Dealing with terrible twos tantrums can be overwhelming, and it is important to seek support when needed. Talk to other parents who have been through it or seek advice from a professional if you feel like you are struggling to handle the situation.
How to Prevent Tantrums?
While tantrums are a normal part of toddlerhood, there are some things parents can do to prevent them from happening too often.
1. Stick to a Routine
Toddlers thrive on routine, and having a consistent schedule can help prevent tantrums. Make sure your child has regular mealtimes, naps, and bedtime, and try to stick to the same schedule every day.
2. Give Advance Warning
Toddlers do not like surprises, so giving them advance warning before transitioning to a new activity can prevent tantrums. For example, if you are leaving the park, let them know a few minutes before it’s time to go.
3. Encourage Independence
Toddlers at this age want to do things on their own, so encourage their independence by giving them age-appropriate tasks to do. This will make them feel capable and reduce the need for tantrums.
4. Avoid Overstimulation
Toddlers can easily become overwhelmed by too much noise, people, or activities. Avoid overstimulating your child by limiting screen time, keeping outings short, and providing quiet activities at home.
5. Give Positive Attention
Toddlers crave attention, and if they don’t get it, they may resort to negative behaviors to get it. Make sure to spend quality time with your child and give them positive attention throughout the day.
6. Practice Empathy
Empathy is an important skill to teach toddlers, and it can also help prevent tantrums. When your child is upset, try to see things from their perspective and respond with empathy. This will help them feel understood and may prevent a tantrum from escalating.
Final Thoughts
Terrible twos tantrums can be challenging, but they are a normal part of toddlerhood. Remember that this is just a phase and it will pass. By staying calm, acknowledging your child’s feelings, and using positive reinforcement, you can navigate through this phase with ease. Seek support when needed, and don’t forget to take care of yourself as well. With patience and consistency, you and your child will get through the terrible twos tantrums together.
outdoor games to play with kids
Outdoor games are a great way to keep kids active, entertained, and engaged in physical activity. Not only do they provide a fun and exciting outlet for children, but they also promote social interaction, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. In today’s technology-driven world, it is essential to encourage children to spend time outdoors, and what better way to do that than through outdoor games? In this article, we will explore some of the best outdoor games to play with kids that will keep them entertained for hours.
1. Tag
Tag is a classic outdoor game that has been enjoyed by children for generations. It is a simple yet thrilling game that requires no equipment, making it perfect for impromptu play. One player is designated as “it,” and they must chase and tag the other players. Once a player is tagged, they become “it,” and the game continues. This game promotes physical activity, as well as speed and agility. It also encourages teamwork and strategy as players try to avoid being tagged.
2. Red Light, Green Light
Red Light, Green Light is another popular outdoor game that kids love. It is a game that can be played with any number of players, making it perfect for large groups. One player is designated as the “traffic light,” and they stand at one end of the playing area. The other players line up on the opposite end. The “traffic light” turns their back to the players and shouts “green light!” The players must then move towards the “traffic light.” When the “traffic light” turns around and shouts “red light,” the players must freeze. If a player is caught moving, they are out of the game. The game continues until one player reaches the “traffic light” and tags them, becoming the new “traffic light.”
3. Capture the Flag
Capture the Flag is a popular outdoor game that promotes teamwork, strategy, and physical activity. The game is played with two teams, each with their own flag. The objective is to capture the opponent’s flag and bring it back to your team’s territory without being tagged by the other team. If a player is tagged, they must go to “jail,” located in the opponent’s territory. They can be freed by a teammate who tags them. The game continues until one team captures the other team’s flag, or all players are in jail.
4. Kickball
Kickball is a popular outdoor game that is similar to baseball, but instead of using a bat and ball, players use their feet to kick a ball. It is a game that can be played with large groups, making it perfect for parties or family gatherings. The game promotes physical activity, as well as teamwork and coordination. It is a fun and challenging game that will keep kids entertained for hours.
5. Hopscotch
Hopscotch is a classic outdoor game that promotes balance, coordination, and physical activity. It is a game that can be played with just a chalk and a few rocks, making it accessible and easy to set up. The game involves drawing a hopscotch grid on the ground and hopping on one foot from square to square, picking up a rock on the way. The player then hops back to the starting point, placing the rock in the next square. The game continues until all squares are completed. It can be played alone or with friends, and there are endless variations to keep kids engaged.
6. Obstacle Course
Creating an obstacle course in your backyard is a great way to get kids moving and having fun. It can be as simple or as elaborate as you like, depending on the age and ability of the children. The course can include things like jumping over ropes, crawling through tunnels, and balancing on a beam. It promotes physical activity, as well as problem-solving and critical thinking skills as kids figure out how to navigate the course.
7. Water Balloon Toss
Water balloon toss is a fun and refreshing outdoor game that is perfect for hot summer days. It can be played with two or more players, each with a partner. Players stand opposite each other and toss a water balloon back and forth. After each successful toss, the players take a step back, making the tosses more challenging. The game continues until there is only one team left with an unbroken water balloon.
8. Hula Hoop Contest
Hula hooping is a fun and challenging activity that promotes balance and coordination. You can turn it into a friendly competition by seeing who can keep the hula hoop going the longest. You can also create a hula hoop obstacle course by setting up hoops in different positions and challenging kids to move through them without breaking the hoop.
9. Scavenger Hunt
Scavenger hunt is a fun and exciting outdoor game that promotes problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork. You can create a list of items for kids to find, or you can use pictures for younger children. You can also make the scavenger hunt themed, such as a nature hunt or a color hunt. Kids will love exploring and searching for the items on their list.
10. Simon Says
Simon Says is a classic game that can be played indoors or outdoors. It promotes listening skills, memory, and physical activity. One player is designated as “Simon” and gives commands to the other players, such as “Simon says, touch your toes.” The players must only follow the commands that begin with “Simon says.” If they follow a command without “Simon says,” they are out of the game. The game continues until there is only one player left.
11. Sprinkler Limbo
Sprinkler limbo is a fun and refreshing outdoor game that is perfect for hot summer days. All you need is a sprinkler and some music. The sprinkler acts as the limbo stick, and kids must dance under it without getting wet. As the game progresses, the sprinkler can be lowered, making it more challenging for kids to limbo under it.
12. Tug-of-War
Tug-of-war is a competitive outdoor game that promotes teamwork, strength, and strategy. It can be played with two teams, each holding onto a rope. The objective is to pull the other team across a designated line. The winning team is the one that pulls the other team across first. It is a great game for family gatherings or parties and can be played with kids of all ages.
13. Sack Race
Sack race is a classic outdoor game that promotes physical activity, as well as balance and coordination. All you need are some old burlap sacks or pillowcases. The players must hop to the finish line while inside their sacks. The first player to reach the finish line wins. You can also make it a relay race by having teams of four take turns hopping in the sacks.
14. Duck, Duck, Goose
Duck, Duck, Goose is a popular outdoor game that promotes physical activity, as well as memory and listening skills. One player is designated as “it” and walks around the circle of players, tapping each player on the head, saying “duck” each time. When they tap a player and say “goose,” that player must get up and chase “it” around the circle. If “it” reaches the empty spot before being tagged, the “goose” becomes “it.” If they are tagged, the game continues.
15. Hide-and-Seek
Hide-and-seek is a classic outdoor game that promotes physical activity, as well as problem-solving and critical thinking skills. One player is designated as “it” and must close their eyes and count to a designated number while the other players hide. Once they are done counting, they must find the other players. The last player found becomes “it” for the next round.
Outdoor games are a great way to keep kids active, entertained, and engaged. The games mentioned in this article are just some of the many options available. Whether it’s a classic game like tag or a more elaborate obstacle course, there is sure to be an outdoor game that your kids will love. So, the next time your kids are itching to spend some time outdoors, try one of these games, and watch as they have a blast while staying active and healthy.