August Aspire Parent Group Recap

I can tell by the increase in traffic in the early mornings and mid-afternoons that school is back in session!  And now as you are trying to get your kids back into a routine of "early to bed and early to rise"... how many times have they thrown a fit in the past couple weeks?  

With all this transitioning, it is likely that each child is going through some personal anxieties that often lash out in the form of a temper tantrum, and it may even occur in the aisle of a grocery store.  It can be embarrassing for mom or dad as child is suddenly pounding the floor kicking and screaming.  

Last week at our Aspire Parent Group in Utah County, our parent champion Janae Moss led a discussion about temper tantrums. Here's what we discussed:

Photo Credit

Common causes of a temper tantrum...

Feeling tired

Being pushed beyond the limit

Wanting attention and not getting it

Feeling jealous (of another child, friend, etc.)

Wanting to communicate but can't or don't know how to 

How do our Aspire Parents deal with their child's tantrums?

Wait for child to calm down and then discuss the situation
Let the child pick the consequences for their behavior
Validate the child's feelings 
Distract the child with something else and redirect their attention 
Teach child what is/ not appropriate
Mimic the child's behavior (the child may stop fussing when they realize how ridiculous they look)
Ignore the child - walk away when they are acting out
Take away a favorite toy
Put the toy in time out
Read books about emotions such as Little Miss Sunshine - (the characters discuss their feelings)

You can dial 2-1-1 and ask for Help me Grow for more child development information.  We are available to help you with ideas and support!

Parenting is no easy task. The most important thing is to make sure that your child knows you love him. Come to our next ASPIRE Parent Group to discuss parenting tips with moms in the community. It is held the third Wednesday of each month at the Utah County Health Department in Provo. It starts at 11:15 am and a light lunch will be provided. If you would like to be added to the email invite list, please contact Deborah with Help Me Grow