Tantrum Help

maddie&stephen

I am lost and don't know what to do with my 15 month old. She is obviously going through an independent stage, but the tantrums are out of control and mortifying when in public. She just wants to roam free, so she throws them when in the high chair, car seat and sometimes the stroller. Sometimes she'll hold my hand and walk, but other times she wants to run off on her own and when you're in the mall that won't work like it will it home. 

She only says a few words, so her communication skills aren't to the stage where she can verbally tell me she's frustrated or upset and then resorts to hitting, crying, screaming instead. I try to calmly tell her "We're in a store right now, we can't run around you have to stay by Mommy," etc. But I know she doesn't really understand; is this just a phase and I should patiently wait through it trying to keep my sanity? Any advice is appreciated, I'm exhausted. 

suzled

I agree with PP, tantrums seem to be completely normal albeit totally obnoxious at this age. DS is just starting them. The only advice I have is what PP said and try to avoid situations that will result in a tantrum. For us thats when DS is tired or has been in the carseat/stroller or otherwise restrained for too long. So it sucks and I've had to adjust how I get errands done but honestly I would rather spread my errands out or wait for DH gets home and can stay with DS than to have meltdown after meltdown.

maddie&stephen

I agree with the leaving part-but I also need to get stuff done. I think I'll try to avoid public tantrums and try to work on the at home response more. Like you said I can walk away at home, but not at a store

zbeesma86

DD has just started this tantrum phase- UGH!

She throws her head back- no matter where she is! My first priority when I see one coming or get the cues is her safety. I either lay her back or move her to carpet! Then once it happens I try to ignore her until she is done. Then she will come to me.

Haven't had one in public yet. But I know how you feel. It's hard because they are upset about something and you have no earthly idea what it can be. I am ready for this phase to end! haha

preggersin2011

LO knows her rules- she's had them since she started walking. You either hold mommy's hand or your feet dont move. Depending upon the situations- if she runs away from me i'll take her baby doll away, or i'll put her in a shopping cart buckled. (she hates being buckled!!) Anytime you cave they will see it as an opportunity to wedge right back in. Clear concise and easy rules are what I stick to. Most of the time her tantrums are for attention. If she has one at home i try to figure out what she needs/ what am i neglecting. but if it is for something like - no more gold fish before dinner- i will completely ignore it. eventually she'll stop and then go play, see her plate at the table and climb up into her chair and eat. If it is time to leave the house to go to school, i'll take her kicking and screaming into the car. my life doesn't stop and wait for her to finish....
I feel like shopping trips go better if baby dolll, PB &J, plus a coloring book go along for the ride

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