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As a parent, you have probably noticed your toddler get angry, throw a tantrum, or have a meltdown. In most cases, this is just a stage of their development, and not a cause of worry. Toddlers generally portray these behaviours because they do not possess the language to express themselves. Usually, these are diminished as your child is old enough to communicate their feelings verbally. 

But, what can you, as parents do when your child is exhibiting aggressive behaviour?

Be Calm: It is of utmost importance to respond to your child’s aggressive behaviour with calmness. Parents’ getting aggressive can in turn increase the child’s aggression. 

Identify what triggers your child: Notice when the tantrums are happening. Is there a pattern to it? Do specific activities make them more aggressive? It is essential to try and understand what is possibly triggering your child to come up with an intervention. 

Positive Reinforcements: Reward and appreciate your child’s good behaviour regularly. Give them verbal encouragement for doing their daily activities without commotion. 

Instill Responsibility: Do not give into their tantrums. For eg. if your child throws around toys all over the room, you gently guide them to put everything back in place, and praise them when the task is done.