Tips on Dealing with Temperamental Children

All children are different. While some want to run off and play with their friends, others never want to leave your side. Some love going to school, and others dread it.

The same applies to their temperament. It is the way children react to whatever is happening in their environment. If you understand your child’s temperament, you can adjust your parenting style according to their needs.

Here are a few helpful tips for dealing with temperamental children:

African American boy with curly hair shouting while playing at the playground, kid having fun on playground.

Encourage Positivity

Although you cannot change your child’s temperament completely, you can help them deal with it better. One of the most effective ways to do this is by encouraging them to stay positive. Every temperament has its advantages and disadvantages. Focusing on the benefits will make things easier for everyone.

Please encourage them to tweak their response to different situations for a better experience. Instead of criticizing them, work with your child to leverage all the advantages of their temperament.

Focusing on the positive aspects will encourage them to do things differently from what they usually do. If they act out of fear, let them know that trying out new things could help make friends and create new memories.

Be Patient

Be patient with your child. Do not lose your temper, and note that your behavior or temperament could also be challenging. Think of ways to adjust yourself for the benefit of your child. Do not hurt your child physically or emotionally. Abuse has long-term effects on them, and you may be charged with child battery. If you feel overwhelmed, schedule some time apart from them.

Don’t Compare Them to Others

Since all children are unique, it would be unfair to compare your child to their friends or siblings. When you need to correct something, do it without making them feel bad about themselves. Let them know that they are special because of their individuality, and they don’t need to be like anyone else.

Don’t Make It About You

Do you feel frustrated that your child isn’t like you? Do you feel that they aren’t as sociable or focused as you once were? Put these thoughts aside, and don’t let them affect your relationship with your side. When dealing with a temperamental child, remember that they are a unique individual rather than a reflection of you. Your job is to nurture them, not make them your mirror reflection.

Don’t Take It Personally

No matter how difficult your child may be, do not take their behavior personally. Their temperament is innate. Please do not assume that they are intentionally trying to hurt or annoy you. All you can do is nurture them. You don’t need to blame them or yourself.

Prioritize the Important Issues

Take a look at all the issues surrounding your child and classify them from the most important to the least important. Pay more attention to the critical issues and put the others at the bottom of your list. Instead of projecting into the future, focus on whatever is happening at the moment.

Be Realistic

Review the expectations you have for your child. Could they be unrealistic for their age? Are your values and expectations appropriate? Sometimes, you may be putting too much pressure on your child. Make an effort to notice their strengths and not just weaknesses. Praise them when they do something right and reinforce the behaviors you like.

Dealing with a temperamental child can be difficult. However, it helps to take things easy and remember that it isn’t personal. Remain patient and focus on the positives. When you feel overwhelmed, take some time apart to re-energize and clear your mind.