The “T’s”. Here they are – and in HIGH GEAR. Saturday morning, 11 AM, count: 4 Tantrums. 18 1/2 months – the month that will live in infamy.
Apparently we have what is considered a “spirited” child. I’d like to blame my husband, but fortunately or unfortunately, both of us have very “spirited” personalities. While part of me is glad that Lucas won’t potentially be a push-over, it also means that he can’t easily be convinced to change his behavior… at 18 months. Who am I kidding – he was like this from day 1! My friends that know him are already rolling their eyes and laughing… Spirited indeed.
After this morning’s 20 minute tantrum over not being able to climb into the kitchen sink after asking nicely (he signed “please” excessively and mommy wouldn’t bend), we put him in his crib and he finally knocked himself out after another 10 minutes of crying! I ran to my friend Google “toddler tantrum solutions”. Here are the articles that I found useful (I hate fake landing pages!) and the books that folks are recommending.
Toddler Tantrum Solutions – Articles
- Toddler Tantrum Survival Guide: Online Article (Parenting.Kaboose.com)
I do not think this advice would work for our spirited child, but I love most of Dr. Sear’s stuff, and every kid is different so make up your own mind!
- KidsHealth.org – Page 3 had some good tips on handling a toddler tantrum depending on the reason for it, which is a great point.
- Toddler Tantrums article on BabyZone. “When Things Get Physical” on part 3 was very useful. “If you’re at home, create a safe space where your child can let out some steam in these moments.” Mmmm – can mommy use the ‘crazy person’ room too?
Today’s Lesson: we are going to teach him the sign for “angry” to see if we can get him to start expressing it before he loses control. Wishful thinking? Maybe, but we have to start somewhere.
Toddler Tantrum Books – Toddler Behavior Books
First, thank you to “virtual friend” Shelley, whom I met at SocialMoms, for her blog post on Established Ways in response to my post “Toddler Mom Seeking Help – What Books Do You Recommend For…” Other moms made great recommendations on different books and ideas on different topics there. You should check it out.
As far as behavior goes, here is the short list I plan to read based on recommendations. I’ll review or respond to any key points in the books that I think apply to “spirited” children in particular, or any other good thoughts they might have.
1. Baby Whisperer’s Book for Toddler Behavior
I was a fan of some portions of the Baby Whisperer when Lucas was a baby. It didn’t all work for us, but at least got me on the right track for sleep training. Hoping it does the same with tantrums!
2. Happiest Toddler on the Block
3. Parenting with Love and Logic
4. 1-2-3 Magic: Effective Discipline for…
Holy crap Batman… this book is $50! Looks like I”ll be calling my library to see if they have this one! Actually, the only one I will probably buy right away for my Kindle is the Whisperer’s. I”ll see what I can find used or at the library from there.
So, any other ideas, articles or books that you want to recommend? Please share them in our comments!