How do I handle my toddler's tantrums?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to get through the grocery store in peace, but your two-year-old collapsed on the floor screaming because you said no to candy.

Tantrums are exhausting.

Causes & evidence

Tantrums are a normal part of development. See toddler tantrums.

What to do

1. Stay calm.
2. Keep them safe.
3. Ignore the behavior if safe, praise calm.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: giving in to stop the noise, which teaches that screaming works, or yelling back, which adds fuel. Stay calm and close by, keep your voice low, and make sure your child is safe. You don't need to reason during the peak; toddlers can't process much then. Name the feeling simply: 'You're mad. You wanted candy.' Once calm returns, offer a hug and move on. Prevent tantrums by watching for hunger and tiredness, and keeping outings short around naps. Give simple choices, like 'Do you want to hold the list or the apple?' Praise calm behavior when you see it. Be consistent among caregivers. Tantrums are a normal part of development at this age. Talk to your pediatrician if they are very frequent, last a long time, involve self-harm, or continue well past preschool.

Speed Man tip: Notice triggers like hunger or tiredness.

Wrap-up: Normal. Calm. Safe.