I'm sure a lot of parents out there will agree with me that tantrums are serious business. Now, I am not here to lecture you about it. I am no expert. I am just a parent who wants to share, or rant, if you may.
Tantrums can happen anytime, anywhere. All children will have their episode of wanting something but not knowing what it is exactly. That sounds frustrating right? Imagine if you are a toddler, who cannot yet articulate your feelings very well. This frustration leads to crying and screaming, kicking, or even throwing themselves to the floor. That is definitely an ugly picture, but that's not the whole of it! Somewhere in that picture, is a struggling parent dealing with it, trying to problem solve it. You are definitely one of the lucky one's if you rarely get this from your toddler. I am however, one of those who is presently experiencing this more frequently with my daughter. She is the most adorable person in my eyes, and everyday I discover new things about her... A few months ago, I've noticed that her tantrums are getting more and more frequent. Does that make her less adorable? That particular moment, yes! But I am still lucky because she has never thrown a big one in public.
I know that there are a lot of helpful articles online and even your doctor could help you. And I know that avoiding it is the key. Yes, I've read all kinds of articles about it. They are all true and helpful when you have the energy to pay attention on what's happening everyday. It takes effort to really try and have a good day with your toddler. There will always be inevitable circumstances, but we just have to make an effort to do it. It's harder to solve the problem than avoid it, right?
There were a few good days wherein I almost wanted to cry because of so much joy. It's a miracle to get through a day without one tantrum. It may be also because of my daughter's temperament... She is one strong-willed child. And giving her choices may not always work. Also, I guess being her mom, I have the privilege to be "special" than anyone else. Because she's the nicest to everyone... But with me, she's the boss. At least, that's what she thinks.
Yes! I thought I knew kids but I was wrong. All that knowledge that I've earned for years as an educator, my whole belief system, were changed by my daughter. I really think I need to go back to college.
