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Early Years (2-6)

Public tantrums: enough! Here’s how to make the day tantrum-free By Lisa Alvarez

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Tears, shouts and foot-stomping? If this sounds like a typical outing with your toddler, consider your negotiation techniques. If you buy everything your toddler wants to avoid an embarrassing outburst, you’re only creating a bigger monster. The next time you go shopping with your toddler, here’s how to make the day tantrum-free: > Shop around your child’s nap time. If junior sleeps at noon, schedule your outing for 10. Dragging an overly tired child around is asking for a tantrum. > Keep a list of requests. When your child asks for something, tell him you’ll put it in on the “request list” and keep it in mind for the holiday. > Have him bring allowance money. This will help your child learn the value of a dollar AND valuable math skills. > Pick and choose purchases. If what he’s asking for is reasonably priced, buy it and save it. Use it as a reward for good behavior. fam Source: HighlightsParents.com Lisa Alvarez is a contributing writer to OC Family Magazine.

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