Stay close through big feelings
Help your toddler feel safe while an emotion passes.
A tantrum can happen when frustration is bigger than a young child's ability to cope. During the peak, long explanations rarely help. Keep everyone safe, lower your voice and use a few calm words. Acknowledge the feeling while stopping actions that hurt. Once your child is calmer, reconnect and practise a simple alternative together.
You can try
- Say what you notice: ‘You wanted to keep playing.’
- Stay available and gently prevent hitting or unsafe actions.
- Afterwards, offer words or a gesture for asking for help.
Reviewed sources
BabyBright, on your phone too
Keep observations, routines and memories in one place. Use BabyBright in your browser or download the app for everyday moments.
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