Parents are praising this savvy mom for taking away her toddler's gadgets without causing a tantrum
Parenting a toddler can often feel like navigating a minefield, especially during moments of rush, and your child is holding something they shouldn't, like an iPad, before bedtime. Many parents know the struggle when they try to reason, plead, and raise their voice, and suddenly, the toddler throws a tantrum. But how can one turn those moments into peaceful, cooperative ones? That’s what @minneesday, a mom, is spreading with her video on handling toddler tantrums with calm and respect.
In her video, the mom shares strategies for taking items away from toddlers without triggering a tantrum. In her caption, “I’m not an expert,” she writes, “just a mom sharing my experience.” She’s living what many parents are going through, and offering small, practical shifts that can make a big difference. One of her main points is to avoid overexplaining. When you speak too much, saying things like “Can you hand me the tablet? It’s bedtime, and screen time is over, and you need to get some rest,” toddlers often shut down or get overwhelmed. Their brains aren’t equipped to process lengthy reasoning. Instead, keep it short and clear, with fewer words.
Another common mistake, she explains, through the overlay text on the video, is trying to forcibly snatch something from a toddler. Children have a strong sense of autonomy, and having something taken away from them suddenly feels like a loss of control. That loss often results in tears, protests, or an outright toddler tantrum. Instead, she suggests offering the child a small choice. For example, you could say, “Would you like to give the iPad to Daddy, or put it on the table yourself?” or “Do you want to give Mommy the fork or put it in the sink?” These choices give toddlers a role in the decision and help them feel respected and involved.
Even more importantly, she encourages parents to acknowledge and appreciate the child’s cooperation. A simple “Thank you for putting that away!” or a high-five reinforces the positive behavior and helps build a sense of connection and trust. The message behind these techniques is backed by science. Experts in child development have long known that children learn how to regulate their emotions by observing and experiencing calm, caring interactions. Responding with patience and offering choices not only leads to better behavior at the moment but also helps children learn problem-solving, emotional awareness, and empathy.
@minneesday Of course, there’s an exception to the strategy mentioned above, and that is when your child is holding a dangerous item. In such situations, swift action is necessary to ensure their safety. Parenting can be challenging, especially when we’re in a hurry. However, by consistently practicing these strategies, you’ll gain valuable insights into what works best for your child’s unique temperament and needs. When communicating with your child, it’s essential to connect with them effectively. Try to get down to their eye level, make eye contact, and then make your request. This approach fosters better understanding and cooperation. Disclaimer: I’m not an expert, just a mom sharing my experiences with others who may be facing similar struggles. It’s important to remember that every child is different, and what works for us might not necessarily work for you. Each parent and child dynamic is unique, so it’s essential to adapt and experiment with different approaches to find what suits your family best. #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #toddlertantrums #motherhood #parentingtips ♬ Belonging - Muted
Calm parenting doesn’t mean never setting limits or letting kids do whatever they want. It means approaching limit-setting in a way that respects the child, preserves their dignity, and encourages cooperation rather than conflict. Over time, children raised with this approach learn emotional self-regulation, self-confidence, and mutual respect. Research states that children “often imitate this calmness, developing healthier emotional responses” when caregivers demonstrate calm behavior during stressful moments. Positive, responsive interactions, such as providing choices and validating feelings, support children in developing their emotional skills. Modeling, consistent routines, and emotional support are foundational to resilience and healthy emotional growth in childhood.
You can follow @minneesday for more parenting hacks.