Top 10 Tricks For Preventing Tantrums

Today, I’m sharing my Top 10 tried-and-true strategies to reduce tantrums and keep the peace in your home.

1. Provide Choices

Kids crave autonomy—and when they feel some control, they’re more open to cooperating when it really matters.

💡 Instead of saying: "Put on your shoes."
✅ Try: "Do you want to wear your sneakers or sandals today?"

A little choice goes a long way in reducing power struggles!

2. Limit Choices to Two Parent-Approved Options

Too many choices can be overwhelming. Instead, offer two good options that work for you and let them choose.

✔️ Example:
🥦 "Do you want broccoli or carrots with lunch?"
🛏️ "Do you want to nap in your crib or the stroller?"

This keeps things moving smoothly while still giving them a say.

3. Use Positive Reframing

Instead of focusing on what they can’t do, redirect their attention to what they can do.

✔️ Example:
❌ "We can’t go to the zoo today."
✅ "We can’t go to the zoo today, but we can go to the park or visit Grandma!"

This simple shift helps minimize frustration and encourages flexibility.

4. Only Ask for Input When It Matters

If the answer won’t change the outcome, don’t phrase it as a choice.

❌ "Are you ready for bath time?" (…cue resistance!)
✅ "It's bath time! Do you want bubbles or bath crayons?"

This eliminates unnecessary battles and keeps things moving smoothly.


5. Prevent the 5 Nemeses of Good Behavior

Bad behavior often stems from basic needs not being met. Keep tantrums at bay by staying ahead of these triggers:

🔥 The 5 Nemeses: Hunger, thirst, heat, fatigue, and being cooped up inside.

✔️ Offer frequent snacks and water
✔️ Avoid overexertion on hot days
✔️ Maintain an early, consistent bedtime
✔️ Get outside for fresh air and movement

A well-fed, well-rested, active child is far less likely to have meltdowns.

6. Consistently Enforce Family Protocols

Kids thrive on consistency. If you enforce a rule one day and let it slide the next, they’ll test boundaries.

✔️ Examples:
🧢 Always wear sunscreen and a hat at the park.
🚫 Don’t “give in” to whining—it only makes things harder in the long run.

7. Pick Your Battles Wisely (The 80/20 Rule)

Not every issue is worth a power struggle! Prioritize what really matters and let the little things slide.

✔️ Example:
✅ Non-Negotiable: Sunscreen and hats outside ☀️
❌ Let It Go: Whether they wear shoes at the park 👣

Focus on the big wins, and don’t sweat the small stuff.

8. Avoid Overscheduling

Kids (especially introverts and anxious children) need downtime to reset.

✔️ Keep a predictable daily rhythm
✔️ Avoid cramming in too many activities
✔️ Watch for meltdown cues—if they’re overstimulated, scale back

A well-balanced day = fewer tantrums.

9. Use If-Then Consequences

Clear, simple consequences help set expectations.

✔️ Examples:
🧸 "You can give the toy back, or I will help you do that."
📺 "You can turn off the TV now, or I can help you."

This removes power struggles and teaches cause and effect.

10. Time Sensitive Discussions Wisely

Timing matters! Avoid bringing up big topics when your child is tired, overstimulated, or hungry.

❌ "Your room is a mess—clean it up before dinner!" (right after an exhausting morning outing)
✅ "Let's tidy up your room before dinner. Do you want to start with blocks or clothes?" (after they’ve had time to recharge)

They’ll be far more cooperative when they’re well-rested and ready to listen.

Keep up the good work on your amazing parenting journey!