How to Stop Screaming Fits...need Advice!

We have all been there done that!

I feel that I need to teach my kids what behavior is allowed, especially in public. If my child throws a tantrum in a store then I give him the opportunity to play it out, for a minute or two. If it is one of those fits that will last longer, I do leave the store but I don't go home. I take him to the car, buckle him in his car seat and let him scream it out. He is safe and we are out of the store. This doesn't stop the staring of people passing by, but he does usually stop faster. Once he is calm, I go back in and finish my shopping. I don't give him the option of throwing a fit and ending my day of errands.

Just remain calm, and don't worry about people staring. If they are parents they know exactly what you are going through, if they aren't parents they won't understand no matter what.

I wanted to add to make sure to plan trips to the store during time he isn't sleepy or hungry. If I am going to be at the store or running errands for a while I take a small toy, a sippy cup and a snack. It makes life so much easier. I have a snack holder that I love called OnTray 2 Go, www.ontray2go.com

Good luck, he will out grow these.

Two resources I HIGHLY recommend:

Love and Logic.....yes, even for his age.

Happiest Toddler on the Block (DVD) AWESOME perspective for this age....gotta see it modeled but it works and is such a healthy way to deal with children this age. LOVE it!!!

Don't be embarrassed and don't react rash... I normally just tell my daughter we aren't going any further until she is done with her fit. When she quiets down enough, I ask her if she is done and if she says yes, we continue. Don't let him hold you hostage with his behavior. People understand and it's best just to let him get over it and move on.

Don't worry about it. We've all been there and dealt with a similar situation. It is common at your child's age. You did the right thing by leaving the store. I know it can be horrifying for your child to have a screaming fit in a store, but most parents understand. I couldn't believe my precious child would act this way, the first time it happened to me. I picked him up and practically ran to the exit. Like the first mom said, try to be prepared when you take a child this age on an outing by bringing food, drink, paci, blankie, toy, book, etc. Also, choose a time when he is not tired or sleepy, not cranky, and not hungry. You will have much better success.