Picture this … your kid is melting down and absolutely losing their mind over something so trivial. (Probably not that hard to imagine actually…) anyway, as it’s happening you’re blood pressure is rising, your patience is falling, and you’re desperately trying to do the exact right thing that the latest social media influencers are telling you. Toddler tantrums, or even big kid tantrums, can really set anyone off.
Listen, staying close by without giving attention is great! It’s so nice to be able to let your child know you’re there for them by being physically present. And of course we want to help them through these times. But you know what’s not going to help? If you try to help and then you end up losing your sh** too.
Self awareness in these moments is so important. If your child is safe and you’re about to do or say something that’s out of anger, that you may regret, or that will ultimately make the situation worse, walk away for a minute. Please please please. And truly this could be because maybe you’re about to give in to the fit bc you want it to stop so badly or you’re about to yell or cry yourself. Take a minute, take a breath, regroup, and then go back in. By then maybe your child will be calm enough to work through it with you.
And don’t forget, repair after these moments! Make sure that child knows you love them no matter what.
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