Appropriate age group(s):
Preschool and Younger
Elementary School

Description of technique for dealing with temper tantrums:
I'm a firm believer in consistent bedtimes. I find that not only is it good for my kids, it's good for mom and dad too.

Kids are forever testing their limits. Can I do this or that. Will this get attention? Saying "No!" all day long isn't good or fun for you or your child. So I try to be as open and flexible as possible (within safety and sanity limits) with my kids, but when it comes to bedtime there is no room for negotiation.

When kids throw a tantrum at bedtime, it's usually because they are overly tired! Work on establishing a good bedtime routine. Our nightly routine consists of dinner, baths, and quiet time (like reading books).

Once in awhile, we do meet with some resistance, and once in awhile, we do let them stay up late, to watch the end of a movie perhaps or to just have fun. But most nights we stick to the routine. Everyone seems better rested and in better spirits because of it.

Other suggestions or comments:
The "whys" of this type of tantrum:
Tiredness or over stimulation.
Hunger.
Sickness.
Change in daily routine either at home or at day care/school.