Children's Anger and Tantrums

The Basics

Successful social interactions build children’s self-esteem. When a child learns how to handle anger productively, it can help build confidence in social situations.

The time and energy you invest in helping your child handle anger also strengthens your connection. That sense of connection with parents can minimize a child’s non-productive displays of anger and tantrums.

Parents are the key source of emotional stability for children. When your child is angry, you can help by trying to understand why -- from your child’s perspective -- and express your understanding out loud.

If your child is physically out of control, you’ll serve as a powerful anchor in the "storm of emotion" when you can provide a calming presence and physical limits.