Anger management

Why do kids get angry?

Kids often experience anger issues because they don’t know how to deal with their frustration or other uncomfortable feelings. They haven’t yet learned skills for solving problems without getting upset.

Sometimes, anger issues in kids are caused by another problem that needs treatment. This could be ADHD, anxiety, learning disabilities, sensory processing issues, or autism.

How to respond to a tantrum:

• When dealing with a child's tantrum, the severity of the tantrum will determine your response.
• For nonviolent tantrums, it's best to ignore them, as even negative attention can encourage the behavior.
• For physical tantrums, remove the child from any potential rewards.
• Younger children can be placed in a time-out chair, while older children should be separated from you until they calm down.
• In extreme cases, call 911 for help.

Managing an angry child:

• Stay calm.
• Don’t give in.
• Praise appropriate behavior.
• Help them practice problem-solving skills.
• Establish a timeout and reward system.
• Avoid power struggles.

When to get help:

• If your child frequently displays alarming aggressive behavior that is disrupting your family, seeking professional assistance is crucial.
• Effective behavioral therapies can help you and your child address aggression, reduce stress, and enhance your relationship.
• By learning techniques to better manage their behavior and helping them control disruptive tendencies, you can foster a more positive and harmonious relationship.