I have wonderful 15th old son, who I think is the greatest thing in the world. He's becoming very independent, which I like. The only problem with that is that he has these temporary temper tantrums. Say for instance, if it's time to get out of the tub, we will kick and scream and cry like I'm killing him or something. When we are in a room and he has one I will walk away or not look at him until he stops. When he does he will stop, I will tell him that is good. But, I don't know if thinks I'm telling him he was good because he stopped or good because of the tantrum. I'm so confused. :-|
I would suggest not saying anything about the tantrum once it is over. Or you can say something to the effect, "I am so glad you calmed down." That way he knows for sure what you are refering to.
The children don't have a long memory, so I don't think he thinks you are praising the tantrum.
Your son's behavior is totally normal and you are handling it fine. He is just learning how to deal with frustration and how the world works.
Hi, J. - You are doing great! Very smart to ignore the tantrums. When he stops, just move on like nothing happened; totally ignore the entire episode, even the stopping part. Make sense? Good luck! Happy Holidays!
It's normal, the only thing I would add is to actually leave the room, not just walk away. (Assuming the room he is in is fairly child proofed.) That sent my little guy a real message and worked well for me. Good luck, kids need limits and discipline, so stick with it! D.
I think it is good that you walk out of the room when he throws his tantrums. I have a 2year old who likes to fall out in the floor. Once he sees he does not recieve attention for that, he will get up and act like nothing is wrong. I don't praise him for being good after the tantrum, I just ignore him when he does it.
Hi J.,
I would suggest that you let him know that his behavor is unacceptible. When he throws a tempter tantrum, put him in his crib until he has calmed down. I understand that at 15 months this may just be a phase. However, to completely ignore it and not address it is not solving the issue.
His tantrums need to be handled in a way that he will understand that you are not praising him for his behavior.
