How To Stop Public Toddler Tantrums

Hand in Hand Parenting has put together a list of strategies we can use to put a stop to toddler tantrums in public pronto.

When I first saw this article, I was thinking their strategies would involve doing things like ignoring the screaming. That's a classic move and it often works, but it isn't exactly helpful when you're trying to avoid all the judgy mom faces at playgroup. Thankfully, Hand in Hand hasn't included tips like that.

Check out one of their totally new tips for stopping the meltdown fast:

Use play to diffuse tension.

Contrary to some popular opinions, it is best not to ignore an upset that is starting to surface. Step in right away! Finding ways to encourage laughter will help your child relieve some tension and feel more connected with you. The more connected your child feels the more cooperative she is likely to be.

When the inevitable “No” must be said, as often happens when shopping, stop for a moment and get down to your child’s level. Make eye contact and offer affection. A playful, “Oh! I know you want that cereal!” snuggle that gets your child laughing shifts the attention away from “No” and back to the connection you share with your child.

The mom in this story is quick to spot some tension brewing at the grocery store with her two sons. She steps in quickly, and playfully, to turn the tension into laughter.

Tension can also pop up in the car where it is hard to connect from the front seat to the back. When I sense tension in the back seat I will now reach back and ask my daughter, “Can we hold hands?” More often than not she puts her shoe in my hand instead! I squeal and pull my hand back saying, “Eww! Eww!” while she laughs and laughs. I try again and again each time letting her know I am really hoping for her hand. And each time she tricks me by putting her shoe in my hand. This keeps her giggling as she enjoys the more powerful role. Bit by bit the tension melts away with her giggles, and we arrive at our destination in happier spirits.

I'm a big fan of this one. I call it distraction when I use it. Have you ever tried this? How did it work for you?

Want to see more? Check out the full list of ways to prevent public tantrums and meltdowns in Hand in Hand Parenting.