Toddlers have a hard time expressing themselves and they get easily frustrated when they can’t get what they want across. When they get tired, sleepy or hungry, they’ll act out. When not addressed properly and right away, these acts can easily become behavioural problems. If these problems get too overwhelming, just stay calm and approach it the right way.
Here are 5 effective ways to deal with a cranky child:
Spend some quality time with your child
Cranky or not, a child needs to feel loved and cared for by their parents. One of the best things you can do to help improve behaviour is to spend some quality time with your child each day – an emotional connection and constant positive attention will help your child feel security at home and will be less likely to act out.
Implement a sleep routine
Another reason why most kids feel cranky is because they’re overtired. More often than not, young children tend to get less sleep than what is recommended for their age. To make sure that they get enough sleep, implement a strict sleeping schedule and do lights out on the dot. Remember, a well-rested toddler is well-behaved toddler.
Have clearly-defined routines
Kids love following routines and if they have a clear one to follow, they’re less likely to feel cranky and act out. If you have a set routine for waking up, for baths, for meal times, bed time, etc., you won’t have a hard time calling them to dinner or convincing them that it’s bed time because they know it’s routine.
Teach them about “pitching in”
It’s ideal that early on, children already understand the concept of home and family. Let your child know that in order to make a home run smoothly, everybody in the family needs to pitch in – each member, including them, should have their share of “contribution” (not chores!) to the household.
In understanding this, a child will feel important and responsible – and he knows that being cranky isn’t being responsible.
Teach them to be problem-solvers
Many toddlers act out because they want your attention (usually because they need to figure out something or need help with something) and if you don’t give them what they ask for, they’ll act out and throw a tantrum.
Teaching them to be more independent, solving problems and finding resolutions on their own, is a good way to improve behaviour.
Here are 5 effective ways to deal with a cranky child!