A toddler tantrum can be compared to a mini tornadoe — a mixture of abundant energy with the ability to cause mass chaos in the blink of an eye. Just like tornadoes, it isn’t their fault or intention. They just want to get into everything. Toddlers use their talents of exploration and mischief to learn about their world and, as parents, this can cause a great deal of stress, yelling and tantrums — from both parents and kids. Here we share a few simple and easy ways to keep our toddlers engaged, learning and happy all while maintaining control and our own sense of peace and comfort!
Find a helper
Kids love to mimic their parents. Set a routine where your toddler can begin helping you set the table (napkins), wash dishes (plastic ones) and sweep (small handheld broom).
Get on their level
Sit on the floor and let them come to you. Have them bring you their favorite stuffed animal, book or toy. Spend time playing and engaging. Set a time each day to do this.
Recognize limits
If you know your child is going to have a meltdown at the grocery store because they are tired, then don’t go. Going will just give you a melting kiddo in the frozen section and put you at your wits end. Staying at home will make for a happy mommy and toddler.
Make time for music
If you don’t have time to get them to every mommy and me music class, that is OK. Music is a wonderful outlet for toddlers. Have them make their own instruments out of Tupperware and spoons. Allow them to get their own “instruments” of choice from the pantry (with supervision of course) and let them go at it. Sing and dance with them as they play away.
Do arts and crafts
This is either a parent’s favorite part of the day or most dreaded; however toddlers love to create. To keep things calm, allow only one craft out at a time. Place your toddler into a booster seat at the table so they can be safe and secure. Keep art projects on their level and encourage them to have fun. Once done, have them help clean up.
Let them explore
Fresh air always does a body good. Set a time each day to have them run and explore outside. Give them a scavenger list and have them go find the items on the list and bring them back to you. Not only will this wear them out, but they will also love getting their hands dirty and exploring the yard. The best time for these types of activities is either before naptime or bedtime. The fresh air and running will wear them out, and a hot bath after will help calm them down.
Train your little chef
Dinnertime, or any mealtime for that matter, can be stressful with kids. However, it can also become one of the best times. Cooking can teach toddlers how to count, measure and form a love of food and cooking. Have toddlers wash veggies, stir mashed potatoes or sprinkle cheese on homemade pizza. Always supervise!
Rely on routine
Children thrive on routine. At preschool their day is structured from beginning to end. At home, it can be hard to be as structured and engaged the same way, but even having a loose routine can help. On the weekend schedule naptime, snack time, playtime and craft time as much as you can.
Don’t forget safety
I had locks on everything, and yet my kids still managed to get into the fridge, pantry, arts and crafts, and diaper cream. Toddlers are sneaky and quick, but the more you think one step ahead the better. Use safety locks where you can to prevent your toddler from getting into things he or she shouldn’t. This will help keep the tornado in control.
Don’t fight it; engage it!
Your toddlers will only be toddlers for a little bit; you don’t want to miss it. Put down the phone, walk away from the computer and engage with your toddler.
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