3-Hacks to Avoid Tantrums

Taking your Taking your child out can sometimes feel like a big challenge, especially when a tantrum is just around the corner. With a few easy and positive tricks up your sleeve, you can make your outings smoother with more patience and less stress.

Here are three simple strategies to help keep the peace and make trips more enjoyable for you and your child.

Countdown to smooth transitions. Transitions, especially when leaving fun things or friends, can be tough for kids. Instead of suddenly announcing it’s time to go, try giving them a heads-up with a countdown. You can say something like, “We’ll leave in five minutes,” or “Four more pushes on the swing, then we’re heading out.” This gives your child a chance to prepare for the change, making it easier to transition without a meltdown. Kids love knowing what’s coming next, so this simple trick can make a big difference.

Swap “stop” for specific phrases. “Stop” loses its power if we use it too much. Instead of always saying “stop,” try using a more specific phrase that guides your child’s behavior while saving “stop” for the really important moments. For example, if your child throws a toy, instead of saying “stop,” you could say, “Let’s play this way,” or “What are you trying to tell me?” This way, when you need to say “stop” in an emergency, your child knows it’s serious. 

Offer choices to give them control. Kids love feeling like they have a say in what’s happening. Giving them choices, even in small things, this will help avoid power struggles and tantrums. For example, when it’s time to leave the park, you might ask, “Do you want to walk or skip to the car?” At bedtime, try, “Do you want two or three more minutes of play?” Offering choices lets your child feel in control while you’re still guiding the situation. Just make sure you’re cool with whichever option they choose.

By using countdowns, being thoughtful about when to say “stop,” and offering choices, you can make your day-to-day moments a lot more peaceful. These strategies are easy to put into practice and can help you build a positive relationship with your child, making everyday adventures more fun for both of you. And remember, it’s all about progress, not perfection—so go easy on yourself as you try these out.