Why Temper Tantrums are not All Bad: A Parent’s Perspective

As a parent, it can be frustrating and embarrassing when our child throws a tantrum in public or at home. However, we should try to remember that tantrums are not all bad. In fact, they can teach us valuable lessons about our child’s development and emotions. Here are five reasons why we should thank our child for their tantrums:

1. Speaking Up When Something’s Not Right

When our child throws a tantrum, it is often because something is not right in their world. They are unhappy with the situation, and they let us know about it. While this behavior may seem out of line at times, it is important to remember that our child is speaking up for themselves. As they grow older, they can use this trait to become advocates for themselves and others, whether it be in school or in the workplace.

2. Living True to a Child’s Nature

Children are bound to have tantrums; it is a part of their nature as they explore their emotions and try to navigate the world around them. We should not be embarrassed or ashamed when our child throws a tantrum, as it is a normal occurrence in their development. By allowing our child to express themselves, we are helping them to grow and learn from their emotions.

3. Forgiving Parents and Second Chances

Children have a unique ability to forgive and forget quickly, which means that after a tantrum, they are ready to start again with a clean slate. As parents, we should learn from this and take advantage of this quality. We should acknowledge our child’s emotions and help them feel heard, and then move on. By doing so, we can create a safe and healthy environment for our child to express themselves.

4. Trying to Express Themselves

It is important to remember that toddlers have limited vocabulary when it comes to expressing their emotions. It can be frustrating for a child when they cannot communicate their needs or feelings, which can lead to a temper tantrum. By allowing our child to express themselves, we are helping them to develop their language skills and find new ways to communicate.

5. Showing They Care

When a child throws a tantrum, it means that they care about something deeply, whether it be a toy, a game with siblings or being included in activities. We should be grateful that our child is engaged with the world around them, and we should take the time to understand what it is they care about.

Conclusion

Temper tantrums may seem like a nuisance or an embarrassment to parents, but they are an essential part of a child’s development. By allowing our child to express themselves, we are helping them to develop their emotional intelligence and language skills. Tantrums can also teach us to be more patient, understanding, and compassionate parents. So, the next time our child throws a tantrum, let us try to see it as an opportunity to connect with them and help them grow.