Managing the Mood: How to Help Your Child Deal with Anger
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Health Tip of the Week Most young children have the occasional challenging moment when they lose their temper. Many have perfectly smooth days until something triggers an emotional outburst. So, what can a parent do when their child loses their cool? And what’s the difference between a pattern of normal temper tantrums and something more concerning?
Psychologist Alison R. Zisser, PhD, ABPP, with the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, shares tips for dealing with a child’s anger and when to seek help.
Temper tantrums are typical in very young children, generally peaking in frequency around the ages of 2 to 3 years old. Children this age are just learning to assert their will, but often lack the language to express themselves verbally. Instead, if a situation is not what they prefer, they may act out their frustration or anger by yelling, crying, hitting, biting, flailing around and/or throwing things. It can be upsetting to watch your child lose control, but it’s best to respond calmly and consistently.
Anger is a normal human emotion. Learning how to manage and communicate it effectively is a developmental process that continues over the course of childhood. Children have fewer tantrums as they become more adept at expressing themselves verbally. This typically happens by the time a child is kindergarten-age.
However, growing up brings new experiences and interactions, some of which may be frustrating or disappointing. You can help your child manage these situations effectively.
Some signs that your child may need additional support are:
If you are concerned, speak with your child’s pediatrician for strategies to help your child regulate their emotions. If your child’s anger challenges continue despite your efforts, talk to your child’s pediatrician or a behavioral health specialist to look for and address any underlying concerns that may be contributing to anger episodes. Your child may also benefit from working with a child behavioral health specialist to learn and practice specific skills to improve their emotional regulation.
As your child learns ways to handle challenges without acting out, their self-confidence and independence will grow.
Contributed by: Alison R. Zisser, PhD
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