Toddler Solutions
from a nurse mom
During
- Safety first. Move them, or the things around them, so nobody gets hurt.
- Name the feeling in five words or less. “You’re mad. The tablet’s done.”
- Stop reasoning. A toddler in full meltdown can’t process logic. Your calm body does more than your words.
- Hold the line kindly. “I won’t let you hit. I’m right here.”
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After
- Reconnect first with a hug, a snack, or water
- Then give the short lesson: “Next time you’re mad, you can stomp.”
The check I do first
Is he hungry? Tired? Overstimulated? Coming down with something? More than half of our meltdowns are really one of those in disguise.
Tantrums are a normal toddler stage. Talk to your pediatrician if meltdowns come with frequent self-injury, last longer than 25 minutes most days, or seem to be getting worse after age 4.
General information from a nurse mom, not medical advice for your child. When in doubt, call your pediatrician.
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