Tantrums in Children: Care Instructions

Skip Navigation

Overview

A tantrum is a way for your child to show frustration. Your child may not yet have the skills to express strong emotions in other ways. This is part of normal child development. Tantrums are more common when a child is afraid, very tired, or uncomfortable.

During a tantrum, children can cry, yell, and swing their arms and legs. Tantrums usually last 30 seconds to 2 minutes and are strongest at the start. Sometimes tantrums last longer and involve hitting, biting, or pinching. Some children can hurt themselves by banging their head against a wall or the floor. If this type of tantrum becomes common, you may need more help from your doctor. Tantrums are most common in children between the ages of 1 and 4 years.

You can learn how to handle your child's tantrums by taking the simple steps below. Parenting classes are also helpful in dealing with the challenges of raising a toddler.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

  • Ignore your child's behavior if your child is having tantrums that last less than 2 minutes and your attempts to stop them make them worse. When you start ignoring tantrums, the behavior may get worse for a few days before it stops.
  • It may not be possible to ignore some temper tantrums, such as when a child is kicking, biting, and pinching. It is important in these cases to make sure your child doesn't get hurt or hurt others.
  • Praise your child for calming down. After a tantrum, comfort your child without giving in to their demands. Tell your child that they are out of control and needed time to calm down. Never make fun of your child for a temper tantrum. Do not use words like "bad girl" or "bad boy" to describe your child during a tantrum. Do not spank your child.
  • Teach your child to handle anger and frustration. Offer simple suggestions to help a child learn self-control. For example, tell your child to use words to express their feelings. Or give your child a safe place where your child can go to calm down. Praise good behavior often, not just after a tantrum.
  • Be a good role model. Children often learn by watching their parents. Set a good example by handling your own frustration calmly.
  • Have your child take a break from an activity that frustrates your child. Instead, have your child start a task that your child already knows how to do.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have problems handling your child's behavior, especially if you worry that you might hurt your child.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • Your child gets hurt or hurts other people or becomes violent.
  • Your child has long-lasting and frequent temper tantrums.
  • Your child regularly has temper tantrums after 4 years of age.
  • You want help with your feelings during your child's tantrums.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter P120 in the search box to learn more about "Tantrums in Children: Care Instructions".

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.