Chances are, if you have a toddler, you have had more than your share of embarrassing moments in public places. Toddlers are extremely emotional and they can be set off by things that seem relatively small to parents. While the best course of action is always to prevent a temper tantrum before it starts, there will be times when despite your best efforts your toddler still decides to impersonate a screaming banshee in a store.
Know the Warning Signs
You toddler will likely give you several clues that he is hitting his limit and is gearing up for a temper tantrum. Routine errands should be done during a time when your toddler is well rested and fed. Some toddlers will begin to show signs that they are tired or hungry which can set them up for a major breakdown if their needs are not met quickly. Other toddlers will begin to whine or get wound up. As a parent, you know your toddler best and you can best predict when he is starting to get upset. Make a note of key behaviors that your toddler generally exhibits before having a temper tantrum so you will know what warning signs to watch for next time.
Don’t Worry About Appearances
Many parents are overly concerned that the people around them will be judgmental when their child is not behaving in a public place. No matter where you are, you are still a parent and you are the one who gets to define the choices that you make for your toddler. Try your best to be consistent with your discipline no matter where you are. Toddlers learn quickly that they can get away with more when they are in public if their parents do not offer the same level of discipline when they are out in public. If you use time outs to control your toddler’s temper tantrums at home, sit your toddler down right there in the middle of the store and give him a time out. If you do not feel comfortable giving your toddler a time out in the middle of a store, immediately take him to the car to have a time out so that he knows that there will be immediate consequences when he misbehaves.
Keeping your voice level and controlled while you are disciplining your toddler will not only help your toddler to understand that you cannot be manipulated, but it will also help to ward off any nosy bystanders who may want to give you their input about how to discipline your toddler.
Do Not Give In to Toddler Demands
Toddlers learn quickly that they can easily get their way if they are with a parent who becomes embarrassed by their public outbursts. Many toddlers throw temper tantrums in grocery stores or toy stores after being denied something that they want. Once your toddler begins to throw a temper tantrum it is very important that you do not give in to his demands because it will set you up for a pattern of public temper tantrums. Set firm boundaries in the beginning and future trips to the store will be less stressful for everyone.
