If you’re the parent of a toddler, you know that sometimes it can feel like all they do is scream. It can be annoying and embarrassing if it happens in public. While it can be tempting to respond with a stern voice or by raising your hand, this is not an effective way to get toddlers to stop screaming.
Let’s take a look at how to get a toddler to stop screaming.
Identify the Cause
Identifying the source of a toddler’s screaming may prove to be difficult, especially since some toddlers scream for seemingly no reason. While a toddler can’t always explain their emotions, there are a few common reasons a toddler may scream.
The most common reason a toddler may scream is that they are over-tired or overwhelmed. Toddlers are often too young to express their exhaustion, so they vent their frustration through screaming. Keeping a consistent bedtime and taking breaks during the day to keep them from becoming overstimulated or over-tired can help alleviate the screaming.
Hunger or thirst are other common reasons for a toddler’s screaming. If a toddler is hungry or thirsty, they may be unable to express their needs, leading to a tantrum properly. Make sure to keep snacks on hand and have fast-acting drinks such as apple juice easily accessible to help curb hunger and thirst-induced screaming fits.
Stay Calm
It is never easy for a parent to deal with when a toddler is screaming or crying. It can be stressful, overwhelming, and completely exhausting. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to getting a toddler to stop screaming, but one of the best ways to tackle the issue is to remain calm. Keeping your cool in the midst of a tantrum can be challenging, but it is key in helping to restore a sense of peace and order.
First, take a few deep breaths. This will help you to physically relax your body, which can be calming and help you to be able to think more clearly. Once you’ve re-centered yourself, try to empathize with your child. Toddlers express themselves through their feelings and don’t always know how to communicate them. Understanding the root of the problem can help you to respond better to the situation.
Try speaking to your toddler in a calm and steady voice. Acknowledge the situation and, depending on the age and maturity of your child, offer solutions to the problem. Remind yourself that your child is too young to understand or appreciate anger and be aware of how your own frustration may be exacerbating the situation.
Redirect Attention
Redirecting attention can be done in a few different ways. The first way is to use a calming distraction. This can be as simple as talking to the child in a calm yet firm voice and engaging them in conversation. Ask them questions about their day, or talk about something fun they can do. This can help redirect their focus and help calm down their upset.
Another way to redirect a toddler’s attention is through activity. Before the toddler starts to scream, give them something to do. This can be anything from coloring, playing with toys, playing a game, or doing a craft. The goal is to give them something else to focus on and to help them redirect their energy.
Distract or Reward
Distraction is often a great way to quiet a screaming toddler. Try to find something that is visually and/or audibly stimulating. This can mean anything from taking them outside to see the birds in the trees or having them listen to a calming story or song. When using distraction, it’s important to remember to keep the distraction interesting; otherwise, your toddler may become bored quickly.
Rewards can also be an excellent way to get your toddler to stop screaming. Try offering a small reward for good behavior, such as a sticker or a piece of candy. This will give your toddler more incentive to stay quiet. Be sure not to overdo it with rewards, though. Too many rewards can quickly begin to feel like bribery, which can negatively affect your relationship with your toddler.
Create a Calming Environment
Creating a calming environment can go a long way in curbing a toddler’s screaming. Consider factors that may be leading to their screaming, such as noise level, lighting, temperature, and the number of people around. Adjusting these factors can create a calm and comfortable environment that your toddler may need to stay peaceful.
Start by reducing the noise level in the environment and removing any loud, distracting elements like toys or video content. Next, create a soothing atmosphere, such as by playing calm music, which can act as a signal that it’s time to calm down and be quiet. If there are too many people around, reduce the number of people and think about who may be triggering your toddler.
While noise is an essential factor to consider, the lighting and temperature may also be causing distress. Make sure the room’s lights and temperature are not too bright or warm, which can be overstimulating. Invest in blackout curtains, opening or closing them as needed, and consider implementing a fan or air conditioner to adjust the temperature.
Conclusion
Navigating the temper tantrums of toddlers can be a challenge for parents. However, some effective strategies can help your toddler stop screaming. Start by understanding the root of the problem, and try speaking to your toddler in a calm voice. If that doesn’t work, redirect their attention with an activity or a distraction. Rewards can also be used to get your toddler to stay quiet and create a calming environment by adjusting the noise level, lighting, and temperature. You can help your toddler manage their emotions more healthily with patience and persistence.