Do you find yourself thinking this about your child? If that’s the case, here are some helpful strategies. Antecedent interventions—actions you can take before a tantrum occurs—can be very effective in preventing disruptive behavior. Instead of reacting after the fact, you can take steps to prevent the behavior altogether. There is always a reason behind problem behaviors. By addressing your child’s needs before the behavior arises, you can eliminate their motivation to act out. For example, if your child is seeking your attention and you provide it, you may be able to prevent a tantrum. Below are some guidelines to assist you.
- Attend to the good. Watch your child play and comment on what they are doing. Simple comments give your child attention that can help prevent the need for them to scream and cry to get attention.
- Prompt engagement. If your child often finds trouble when not engaged in an activity, it’s a good idea to start him in an activity before you take care of something else, like preparing dinner. Reserve the most preferred activities for times when you know your attention will be at its lowest.
- Provide structure. Establish a routine for him. Outline steps such as getting dressed, brushing teeth, and eating breakfast. This way, he will understand what is expected of him.
- Give choices when appropriate. Children shouldn’t be allowed to choose everything, but there are times when you can offer them the opportunity to make smart choices from the options you provide. For instance, they must eat breakfast, but they can choose between two healthy options. Similarly, they need to get dressed, but they can decide whether to wear the blue shirt or the green shirt.
If you want more information on addressing troubling behavior, check out our purposeful parenting training here.