Appropriate age group(s):
Preschool and Younger

Description of technique for dealing with temper tantrums:
My 2 yr. old daughter had a tantrum once in a blue moon. I've talked with lots of parents and have read a lot of advice on the net. I let her have them at home (but I never left her alone in a room).

It is a demanding/needing stage when a child acts out when not getting what they want. With patience and understanding, I try to realize that for younger children it is more the frustration of not being able to speak clearly and be understood. They have so many emotions going through them that it makes it hard for them to separate emotions and to comprehend the outcome.

I didn't give in to the temptation to pick her up until she stopped screaming. When she got to the point of plainly crying for comfort, I picked her up and tried to reassure her that I still loved her.

She has since stopped them before she turned 2 1/2. When I felt a tantrum coming on, I would take her away from any area that might be crowded and noisy. Softening my voice and finding her something else to do seems to have worked for me. All ages need quiet and regrouping time, no matter how short the allowed time.

Other suggestions or comments:
When dealing with my 2 & 11 year old children, I try to put myself in their shoes. I understand how frustrating it can be when no one listens, ignores or doesnÆt understand even the most simplest needs and wants. Please be patient and loving during their most frustrating toddler years. They will love you for it. Seeing a child smile is the most important gift/reward that I can receive as a parent...:)