The Calm After the Storm: How to Connect after a Tantrum

Emotions and learning are like oil and water…they do not mix! That is why the moment when your toddler is struggling to escape the car seat is not the best time to give him a lecture about deaths on the highway. Even adults become more unreasonable and illogical when we are upset.

So, it should be no surprise that your toddler cannot hear you until the tidal wave of his emotions starts to subside. When your child enters caveman mode, energetically acknowledge his dismay, and then, once he calms a bit, you can try to distract him, reassure him, or solve the problem.

Here are some other things you might do and say after the storm has passed when it becomes your turn:

• Be physical. Offer a hug, tousle his hair, put a hand on his shoulder, or just sit quietly together.
• Whisper. Whispering is a fun way to change the subject and reconnect.
• Give options. 'We cannot have soda, but how about some yummy milk?'
• Explain your point of view…briefly. Save important lessons for a calm time, later on, when he can pay better attention.
• Teach how to express feelings. 'Make a face to show me see how sad you are,' or 'When I’m mad, I stomp my feet, like this…' (Here is more on how to teach your toddler to express their emotions.)
• Talk about how emotions feel, physically. 'You were so mad, I bet you felt like your blood was boiling!' or 'When I’m scared, my heart goes boom boom like a drum.'
• Grant your child’s wish…in fantasy. (This is one of my favourites.) 'I wish I could vroom up all the rain and we could go outside and play right now!'
• Give a 'you-I' message. Once the dust settles and it is your turn to talk, very briefly share your feelings using a 'you-I' sentence to help your toddler learn to understand the feelings of others: 'When you kick Mummy, I feel mad!' or 'When you call me "stupid," I feel very sad inside.'

Avertissement : Les informations présentes sur notre site ne constituent PAS des conseils médicaux pour une personne ou une condition spécifique. Elles sont uniquement destinées à titre d'information générale. Si vous avez des questions médicales et des préoccupations concernant votre enfant ou vous-même, veuillez contacter votre fournisseur de soins de santé. Le lait maternel est la meilleure source de nutrition pour les bébés. Il est important que, en préparation et pendant l'allaitement, les mères adoptent une alimentation saine et équilibrée. La combinaison de l'allaitement au sein et au biberon dans les premières semaines de vie peut réduire la production de lait maternel de la mère et il est difficile de revenir sur la décision de ne pas allaiter. Si vous décidez d'utiliser une préparation pour nourrissons, vous devez suivre les instructions avec soin.