You might feel joyful when your adorable little munchkins act cute. But sometimes sudden freak-outs and aggressive behavior of your kids might leave you surprised. It is usually said that a child’s development takes place between 18 months to 3 years of age. It is between this period when the child tries to understand new things, and start distinguishing between their likes and dislikes.
Kids generally show aggressive behaviour when they want to be heard. And since they are unaware of the concept of waiting, patience, sharing, or taking turns, throwing tantrums is the only thing they can do. But there are a few tips with which you can limit such aggressive behavior in your kids.
1. Know Your Child’s Trigger Points
Does your child start throwing fits before going to school or is it when you sit down for work or is it when they are being looked after by someone else? It is essential to know their trigger points so you can mentally prepare them beforehand. For instance, before leaving for school inform your child that you will be leaving in the next 15 minutes. This will help them wrap up their things without any rush and give them time to mentally prepare for the day.
2. Reward Their Efforts
But not with financial or materialistic things as it will do more harm than good. Instead, reward them with something personal like by letting them pick their dress, choosing what to have for breakfast, what movie to watch as a family, place to visit over the weekend, and so on. Always praise their efforts with encouraging words, heartfelt notes or drawings. It will build up their confidence and limit aggressive behavior.
3. Solve Their Problems Along With Them
Kids might show signs of frustration or might start throwing tantrums when they are stuck in a particular situation. Be it about finding the right puzzle piece or finding the missing Lego, they will instantly cry their eyes out. But before you jump in and try to save the day, sit with them and suggest that they look for the missing pieces together. And while doing so let them find the missing treasure all by themselves. This way kids will gradually understand that it is better to solve the problem rather than being grumpy.
4. Have Positive Interactions With Kids
Keep your kids away from marital problems and socio-economic stressors. And do not punish them for every small thing. Instead, spend some positive time with kids and interact with them as much as you can. If you are dealing with some serious personal or professional issue, which your child must be aware of, explain it to them calmly and answer their questions as honestly as possible for their clarity. This will avoid triggering their aggressive behavior later.
Always remember, you are not alone. Every child shows aggressive behavior, but if you stay calm and try to understand your kids pain points, they will stay much happier and calmer than before.
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