
The screaming. The stomping. The tears.
You just asked your toddler to put on shoes, and now you’re both on the floor, exhausted. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Toddler Temper Tantrums!
Toddler temper tantrums are one of the most complex parts of parenting, but they’re also one of the most misunderstood. At Parenting Genie, every tantrum is a chance to understand better, connect with, and guide your child.
And yes, you can handle your child’s tantrums like a pro.
What Are Toddler Tantrums?
Tantrums are emotional outbursts common in children aged 1 to 4. They often come out of nowhere. One minute, your child will be happy; the next, they will scream on the supermarket floor.
A toddler temper tantrum may include crying, hitting, kicking, or even holding their breath. As intense as it looks, this is a normal part of child development.
Your young child is still learning how to deal with big feelings. They don’t have the words or skills to tell you what’s wrong.
Watch this video for more tips on toddler behaviours and meltdowns.
Why Do Toddlers Have Tantrums?
Here’s the truth: tantrums aren’t about being naughty.
They happen because your child may be:
- Tired or hungry
- Frustrated or overstimulated
- Struggling to express emotions
- Seeking attention or testing boundaries
Sometimes, your child is having a tantrum simply because they feel overwhelmed. They need your help to feel safe again.
Tantrums Are a Normal Part of Growth
It can be hard to stay calm in the moment, but remember, tantrums are a normal part of growing up.
Like learning to walk or talk, your toddler is learning to regulate emotions. This takes time. And a lot of patience.
How to Deal With Toddler Tantrums Like a Pro
You don’t need to be perfect. You need the right tools. Here’s how to handle toddler meltdowns with confidence:
1. Stay Calm
Your child learns from how you react. If you stay calm, they’ll begin to feel safe.
Take a deep breath before you respond. Whisper if they’re yelling. It helps lower the intensity.
2. Acknowledge Their Feelings
Use simple words like:
“I know you’re upset because you want to play.”
This helps your toddler feel seen. And that reduces the meltdown faster.
3. Offer Choices
Give your toddler a sense of control.
“Do you want the red cup or the blue one?”
This works wonders to prevent tantrums before they even begin.
4. Create Routines
Toddlers thrive on structure. A regular sleep and meal schedule helps prevent tantrums caused by fatigue or hunger.
5. Use Distraction or Redirection
If your toddler is about to throw a tantrum, try redirecting their attention:
“Let’s see what’s outside the window!”
Sometimes, a quick switch can save the moment.
What Not to Do During a Toddler Tantrum
- Don’t yell back
- Don’t give in to unreasonable demands
- Don’t ignore them completely; your child needs connection, not punishment

Temper Tantrums in Toddlers Are a Learning Opportunity
Every tantrum tells you something. It may mean your toddler is overstimulated or needs help with transitions.
Use tantrums as a chance to teach. Talk about feelings later when your toddler is calm:
“You were really mad when it was time to leave. Next time, we’ll count down together.”
Real Talk: Dealing with Meltdowns Is Not Easy
Dealing with toddler tantrums can feel like emotional whiplash.
One minute they’re hugging you. The next, you’re ducking a flying toy.
A toddler’s outburst does not mean you’re a terrible parent. Your toddler is not a bad child, but you’re both learning.
Help Your Child Feel Heard
One of the best ways to respond to a tantrum is to tell your child what’s happening.
“Your body is telling me you’re tired.”
“Let’s sit together until you feel better.”
These words show empathy—and that helps toddlers regulate emotions over time.
Prevent Toddler Tantrums Before They Start
You can’t stop every meltdown. But you can reduce how often they happen.
Try these tips:
- Avoid long errands or outings when your toddler is tired
- Carry snacks and water
- Prepare them in advance for transitions:
“We’ll leave the park after one more slide.”
Over time, your toddler will learn that they can trust your words—and your support.
Build Connection Through Big Feelings
When your toddler is upset, they need you the most, even if they push you away.
Tantrums are loud invitations to connect. Instead of reacting, respond to a tantrum with love and calm boundaries.
You Don’t Have to Struggle Alone – Toddler Behaviours Mastery Online Course
If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like nothing is working, we see you.
That’s why we created the Toddler Behaviours Mastery Online Course.
What You’ll Learn:
- How toddlers grow, think, and play
- Why they don’t always listen (and how to help them!)
- How to stay calm when emotions explode
- How to respond to toddler tantrums in a loving way
- How to strengthen your bond while teaching boundaries
This online course is broken into simple weekly lessons, packed with fundamental tools and activities. You go at your own pace—no pressure, progress.
And the best part? You’ll finally feel empowered to handle toddler tantrums like a pro.
Plus, Genie Chat Is Available 24/7!
Do you have a parenting question at 2 a.m. or need some tips after a challenging day?
Genie Chat is your on-demand parenting expert—ready anytime, any day. Get all the answers you need immediately.
Final Thoughts- Toddler Temper Tantrums
Your child throwing tantrums doesn’t mean you’re failing.
They’re signs that your child is growing, learning, and feeling deeply. With the right tools, you can turn every meltdown into a moment of connection.
Bond with your toddler like a pro.
Start the Toddler Behaviours Mastery Online Course today and create calmer days—together.
The Raising Children website has some helpful parenting tips and insights on toddlers.