Tips To Manage Aggression In Toddlers Or Preschoolers

Posted by Liza Brown
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Oct 20, 2020
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Every human being feels anger or aggression sometimes, including children. Ways adults deal with their anger is in stark contrast to how children, more specifically toddlers or preschoolers, might deal with it. Adults are able to control their behavior when these feelings arise in a far better manner than children do, who may turn their energy toward violent behavior such as biting, kicking, hitting, etc.

It’s normal for preschoolers and toddlers to have difficulty managing feelings as big as anger. Parents often look at their child’s aggression as an intentionally mean action, instead you should look at your kid’s aggression as his/her way of communicating. For someone who does not have the vocabulary to express what they are thinking or feeling, feelings can be overwhelming. Behaviors like kicking, hitting, biting are all a cry for help, as if they’re trying to say“I need some space!” or “I want to make my own choices!”

It is your responsibility now as a parent to provide your child utmost support so they start expressing their feelings with words instead of hurtful actions. Parents often feel out of control in the face of their child’s anger and aggression. It is not the fault of parents that your child is acting out. Most toddlers lack the self-control to express anger peacefully (let alone productively channelizing their anger) and may naturally lash out, perhaps hitting or biting in frustration, hot-headed outbursts that destroy property; cool-headed bullying; verbal attacks, etc.The way you handle aggression with your child may vary with age, and may change from stage to stage. Here are some tips to help you manage your child’s aggression that goes to a preschool Manalapan NJ:

Consistency is key- No matter where you are or what you’re doing, when it comes to toddlers and preschoolers, try to be consistent with how you respond to their anger (angry behavior). One day you are overlooking the behavior and the next day you are screaming at him is not the solution. The key for you is to be calm, and teachhim not to kick, hit, or bite when they are angry, but instead to express their feelings through words.

Take your child out of the situation- Remember, toddlers have little natural self-control, and sometimes it is best to remove your child from the situation to help him regain control of his emotions. For example, if you’re at the grocery store and your toddler has started throwing tantrums and is kicking at the shopping cart, first try to talk it out, if your child’s behavior is persistent, follow through and take him out of the store.

Offer a pep talk in advance- If you know there are situations that are difficult for your child, giving him a little pep talk in advance can be helpful. For example, if your child always has issues when he goes to your relative’s house, it’s advised that you talk to him with regards to what you expect from him before you enter the house.

Seek support from other caregivers- Misbehaviors, like fighting and physical aggression, take place in daycare and pre-school as well, which is considered to be part of the way kids learn to get along with each other, but you must deal with it immediately if your child is aggressive.Check in with the caregiver regularly (to ensure you both are on the same page with regards to dealing with your kid’s aggression) to make sure that the behavior is improving.

Parents must not lose their temper and stay strong- It is very important for parents to monitor their own behavior around their children. Lead by example by not losing your temper in front of your child, which is one of the best ways to teach him appropriate behavior. It is just as important for you to stay strong as you discipline your kid. Do not feel guilty about it and certainly don't apologize as you are doing it for their good. Disciplining (where you offer your child with praise along with instruction in a firm tone) your child is an integral part of parenthood and there’s no reason to feel guilty about it. Your child needs to understand when he/she is in the wrong, it is important to take responsibility for his actions (they must own up to their mistakes) and be willing to accept the consequences.

Steps to dealing with your kid’s aggression:

1.   Respond quickly

2.   Never hit back

3.   Be consistent

4.   Talk about your child’s feelings

5.   Reinforce responsibility

6.   Limit screen time

7.   Praise calm behavior

      For more details check out: https://www.genius-kids.us/

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