terrible twos started early 18 months tantrums

Tantrums at 18 Months: Why It's Happening and How to Survive

Struggling with tantrums right now? Get the exact scripts that help → Click here

You're standing in the middle of the grocery store, and your 18-month-old is lying on the floor, screaming at the top of their lungs. You've tried to reason with them, you've offered distractions, and you've even tried to pick them up and move them to a different location, but nothing seems to be working. You're at your breaking point, and you're not sure how much more of this you can take. You look around and see other parents watching you, some with a sympathetic glance, while others seem to be judging you, wondering why you can't control your child. You feel like you're failing, like you're not doing something right.

But here's the thing: tantrums at 18 months are completely normal. They're a sign that your child is learning to navigate the world, testing boundaries, and trying to communicate their needs. It's not about you; it's about your child's development. At this age, children are beginning to assert their independence, and they're still learning how to regulate their emotions. They may become easily frustrated when they're unable to communicate their needs or when they're unable to do something they want to do.

Understanding the Psychology Behind Tantrums

Children have tantrums because they're still learning how to control their emotions. They may become overwhelmed by their feelings, and they don't know how to express them in a healthy way. Tantrums can be triggered by a variety of things, including hunger, tiredness, frustration, and overstimulation. At 18 months, children are still developing their language skills, and they may become frustrated when they're unable to communicate their needs.

Strategies for Managing Tantrums

Staying Calm and Patient

When your child is having a tantrum, it's essential to remain calm and patient. This can be difficult, but it's crucial for helping your child learn to regulate their emotions. When you stay calm, you're showing your child that you're in control, and that you can handle the situation. Avoid yelling or punishing your child, as this can escalate the situation and make things worse.

Offering Choices and Distractions

Offering your child choices can help them feel more in control, which can reduce the likelihood of tantrums. For example, you could say, "Do you want a banana or an apple?" This gives your child a sense of autonomy and can help them feel more confident. You can also try offering distractions, such as a toy or a book, to help redirect your child's attention.

Setting Boundaries and Establishing Routine

Setting clear boundaries and establishing a routine can help your child feel more secure and reduce the likelihood of tantrums. Make sure your child knows what to expect, and try to stick to a daily routine as much as possible. This can include things like meal times, nap times, and play times.

Preparing for Tantrums

Avoiding Triggers

There are certain things that can trigger tantrums, such as hunger, tiredness, and overstimulation. Try to avoid these triggers as much as possible by making sure your child is well-fed, well-rested, and not overwhelmed. You can also try to avoid situations that may trigger tantrums, such as taking your child to a crowded store when they're tired.

Having a Plan

It's essential to have a plan in place for when your child has a tantrum. This could include things like having a safe place for your child to calm down, having a distraction ready, or having a way to soothe your child. Having a plan can help you feel more in control and can reduce your stress levels.

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