When your child is red-faced and screaming, it can be a challenge to calm her down. But if you can remain cool and attentive, chances are good that she will relax more quickly and reflect your controlled behavior. You don't need any special skills to help your angry child relax. You just need to avoid anger yourself and be prepared to listen and console your upset child.
Help Your Child Calm Down
Step 1
Stay calm. Getting angry with your child won't do much to calm her down. The Parent Coach Plan states that if you become agitated, your angry child may respond in kind and become even angrier. Use a calm, controlled voice when talking to your angry child and avoid yelling.
Step 2
Encourage your child to take deep breaths. Once your child is able to think clearly, he will be better able to understand and explain his feelings.
Step 3
Listen to your child's frustrations. Ask your child to explain why he is angry. By explaining his feelings, he should be able to better understand why he is frustrated and cope with the problem at hand.
Step 4
Let your child know it's OK to get upset. Tell your daughter that you understand she is angry and that it's perfectly normal. AskDrSears.com states that it's better to help your child work through her anger rather than try to shove her feelings aside and ignore her emotions.
Prevent Outbreaks
Step 1
Help your child avoid excessive anger by modeling good behavior. AskDrSears.com states, that parents who are frequently angry and spend a lot of time yelling, have children who exhibit the same behavior. If you become upset, especially with your child, try not to overreact in a harsh manner. Take a deep breath, avoid yelling and try to handle the situation calmly. Your child is always watching and learning.
Step 2
Use laughter to diffuse anger if your child is on the verge of becoming angry. According to AskDrSears.com, using humor can help you and your child keep your anger in perspective. Rather than yelling, try using humor to show your son that whatever he may be upset about isn't the end of the world.
Step 3
Listen to your child before an outbreak occurs. Some kids act out in an attempt to get attention from their parents. If your son tries repeatedly to get your attention and fails, he may get angry and throw a tantrum just to get your attention.
Tips and Warnings
- Count to 10. For some adults and children, counting to 10 when angry can provide a bit of time and perspective, allowing anger to diffuse a bit. Upset children tend to respond well to a change in environment. If your son is having a fit of anger in a public place or at a friend's house, try taking him outside to calm him down.
