We’ve all been there. The dreaded public temper tantrum. A perfectly wonderful outing can quickly be ruined by kicking, screaming, stomping, crying, shouting…you know the routine.  So what do you do to stop the tantrum without having a tantrum yourself?

1. Try not to react. Remain as calm as possible and stay in control. Talk in soothing tones. A big reaction from a parent may teach your child that throwing a temper tantrum is a great way to get mom or dad’s attention. You may even want to try acting the opposite of how your child would expect you to react. Act silly, laugh, tell a joke. Your child might respond positively to this behavior; it just depends on his or her personality.
    
2. Make sure your child has what he or she needs. A tantrum is not necessarily a way for your child to get his/her way. It could be that your child needs a nap or a diaper change. Or maybe he or she is having digestive problems or low blood sugar. It's a good idea for your child to have a regularly scheduled naptime and be sure to bring a snack everywhere you go to avoid a hunger tantrum.
    
3. Focus on your child. Ignore everything and everyone except your child. Get down on his or her level and try to really connect. This can be hard when they’re out of control, but try. Ask what’s wrong. Sometimes kids just want to be heard. If you can validate his/her feelings, you may be able to redirect him/her (see next tip) or find a solution to the problem.
    
4. Give your child a task. After you’ve reasoned with your child, give your child a task. This is a great way to refocus your child’s attention on something other than what’s bothering him or her. For example, if you’re at the grocery store, ask your child to help you pick out 5 apples and help put them in the cart.

Most children will snap out of a tantrum just as quickly and inexplicably as it started. Once the tantrum is over, it’s a good idea to tell your child you love him/her and give them a hug and kiss. Dwelling on the outburst can make them feel bad and may even cause it to start all over again.

Do you have any temper tantrum survival strategies? Let us know in the comment section below!