Children of all ages experience anger, and sometimes that anger results in temper tantrums, acts of aggression and other unacceptable behaviors. Although it is normal for kids to experience anger, some have trouble dealing with their emotions in acceptable ways. You can help kids that have anger problems by helping them learn to recognize and deal with the emotion in healthy ways.
Step 1
Teach your child to recognize his anger when it happens. People often feel warm, breathe heavily or feel tense when they are angry. Helping your child label his feelings can help him learn to manage them before they get out of control.
Step 2
Encourage your child to step away from the situation or person that is making her angry. Explain that stepping away can help her bring her emotions under control.
Step 3
Practice coping strategies for anger and give your child ideas about things he can do to help calm his emotions, such as counting to 10, drawing a picture, singing a song or engaging in physical activity or exercise.
Step 4
Make yourself available to your child and encourage her to talk to you about her feelings. Talk to your child about other trusted adults, such as family members, teachers and counselors, whom she can talk to when she feels upset.
Step 5
Give your child a special journal or notebook for him to write or draw about his feelings. Some children, especially teenagers, may be reluctant to discuss their feelings with others. A journal can provide an outlet for children who will not talk about their feelings.
Step 6
Remove your child from dangerous situations, such as when he acts out with physical violence. Maintaining safety and letting your child know that violent or aggressive behavior is unacceptable can help him learn boundaries, explains "Parent & Child" magazine.
Step 7
Set specific rules and consequences for kids that have anger problems. If children know exactly what to expect when they engage in certain behaviors, they can learn to express anger in healthy ways.
Step 8
Discuss emotions and anger with your child and forgive him if he acts out after you follow through with the set consequence. It is important for children to understand that emotions and anger are not negative things they should hide, but that they must learn to deal with them appropriately.
Tips and Warnings
- Dealing with kids who have anger problems can cause frustration and even more anger. It is important to refrain from losing your temper when dealing with an angry child so that he does not view negative angry reactions as appropriate.
- Sometimes anger problems are the result of an underlying physical or psychological problem. If your child continues to have issues with anger, talk to your child's doctor or a psychologist for additional help.
Things You'll Need
- Notebook (optional)
