Dr. Nita Shumaker, Galen North Pediatrics; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical SocietyQ: My once well-behaved and charming baby is now a toddler with an attitude. I know tantrums are a normal part of life, but how can I minimize them and maintain a happy household?
A: Tantrums happen to every child, but there are some things you can do to keep them from being too disruptive. Most importantly, know the signs of a meltdown; it’s easier to stop if you see it coming. Try distracting your child by starting an activity to shift his or her attention. Humor is often a good defuser. Or take a break from whatever is getting your child worked up to let them calm down and soothe themselves, an important skill to learn. You need to remain calm and not engage in the tantrum. If tantrums become frequent or your child’s behavior regresses, talk to your pediatrician.
– Dr. Nita Shumaker, Galen North Pediatrics; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society