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Sometimes all it takes to turn that frown upside down is the parent's attitude adjustment. Your child can sense when you're unhappy, and if you put on a big smile - even if you don't feel like smiling - you may avert that tantrum. Choose your battles. An independent 2-year-old who chooses her own clothes may cross into tantrum territory when you insist on the white shoes instead of the pink shoes that she wants to wear. If mismatched shoes mean avoiding a meltdown, let her. However, if your child is fighting being seated in his carseat, this is a "biggie" - meaning you need to stand your ground. Regardless of why a tantrum is happening, how you handle it can decide its duration. Putting on a happy face helps, and staying put while the child blows up is important, although it is tempting to just leave the room and ignore the behavior. Showing the child that you support him can help validate his emotions and help him feel less scared and frustrated.
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