Solutions For Dealing With Tantrums

                When your child loses it, he needs you to stay calm.
                Here are some ways to help him regain control--and
                help you to control your temper.

     Use a gentle tone.  If your child is yelling, simplify your own
     language and speak in a quiet voice.  Don't let your child whine
     or use baby talk.
    
     Limit choices.  Although your child may get angry when he feels
     that he has no control over a situation, he can also become
     overwhelmed by having too many options.  For example, don't say,
     "What would you like for lunch?", instead, say, "Would you like a
     peanut butter or a tuna fish sandwich?'

     Get closer.  Physical closeness is very comforting.  Let him sit on
     your lap or sit close to him while he tries to calm down.

     Give fair warning of change or transition.  Instead of saying
     "We're leaving right now!", try "We're leaving in 10 minutes,
     right after you finish your drawing."

     Laugh it off.  Turn the battle into something silly.  When your
     toddler is hopping mad, why not hop?

     Count to 10.  It's a very low-tech way for you to calm down,
     but it works.