Temper tantrums in toddlers – they're quite a mystery that many parents face, and guess what? They don't only strike during the terrible twos and threes!
These emotional meltdowns can happen to toddlers at different ages. It can leave parents feeling pretty baffled and stressed out.
So, let’s explore what temper tantrums are, and why toddlers and kids have them. We’ll also uncover how what your child eats can affect their behavior.
What are Temper Tantrums?
Temper tantrums in toddlers are big emotional explosions that little kids often have. They involve crying, yelling, stomping, and sometimes even hitting or throwing things. It's a volcano of feelings erupting because they're upset or can't express it well.
Why Do Toddlers Have Temper Tantrums?
Toddlers are in a phase where they're learning to be more independent. But they don't always know how to tell us what they want. This can lead to large feelings when they can't get their way or can't tell us what's wrong.
But, guess what? Tantrums in toddlers aren't for the terrible twos and threes only. They can happen as toddlers continue to figure out their feelings and rules. In fact, they affect up to 84% of children, ages 2-5 years at some point during their early years!
The Role of Nutrition in Behavior
Have you ever wondered if there's a link between what we eat and how we behave? Well, the answer is yes, and it's especially important for kids!
Eating a healthy diet is like giving our brains the right kind of fuel to run well. Just like a car needs the right gas, our bodies and brains need the right nutrients to work well.
When it comes to temper tantrums in toddlers and kids, there are certain vitamins to help children's behavior. They support brain development and help kids stay focused and in a good mood. Studies show that vitamins like D and B vitamins can improve how kids act. They do this by boosting the production of their happy hormones, serotonin and dopamine.
On the flip side, if kids don't get enough of these vitamins, it can lead to behavioral problems. This is actually one of the signs of hidden hunger in kids. Hidden hunger is when the body lacks essential nutrients despite getting enough carbs. So, make sure they eat right and, if needed, consider vitamins to help children's behavior.
Vitamins for Tantrums & Better Moods
B Vitamins: The Nervous System Team
The nervous system is the body's communication network, helping different parts of your body work together. B vitamins including folate are the team that keeps this network running smoothly.
One of their key jobs is helping to create a substance called neurotransmitters. These are messengers that carry information between nerve cells. When your nerves work well and can pass messages without a hitch, you tend to feel less grumpy and more focused.
Vitamin D: The Sunshine Helper
Vitamin D is a unique nutrient known as the "sunshine vitamin" because your body can make it when your skin is exposed to sunlight. It plays a vital role in your brain's function and mood regulation.
When you have enough vitamin D, it's like giving your brain a burst of sunshine. It helps your brain work more efficiently, improving your thinking abilities and overall mood. Research has shown that vitamin D is linked to better mood and less anxiety.
First Day Kids Daily Essentials: Temper-Soothing Vitamins
Now, you might wonder how to get these vitamins for tantrums. That's where our kids' multivitamins come in handy.
Our Kids Daily Essentials are a special mix of vitamins to help children's behavior. They're tasty and easy to eat, so your child can get all the nutrients they need for a better mood.
Although our gummies are designed for kids aged 4 and older, many parents have shared their positive experiences starting their 2- and 3-year-olds with only half of one of our gummies. But remember safety always comes first! Be sure to closely supervise them and consider cutting the gummy into smaller, easy-to-handle pieces. And, make sure to check in with your pediatrician.
Discover First Day Kids Daily Essentials for Better Moods Today!
How to Give Your Child Vitamins
Now that you're all set with the best vitamins to help children's behavior, here’s how to go about it safely and effectively.
Speak to Your Doctor First
Before you start giving your child any vitamins for tantrums, you must have a chat with your doctor. They know what's best for your child and can guide you on which vitamins are right for them. They can also tell you the right dose to keep your child safe and healthy.
How to Choose the Right Vitamins
Not all vitamins are created equal. To pick the best ones for your child, look for ones made just for kids, like our Kids Daily Essentials. Check the label to make sure they have the vitamins to help children's behavior. Remember these include B vitamins, folate, and vitamin D.
How to Give Your Child Vitamins Safely
Now, here's the fun part – giving your child vitamins! If they're old enough to chew gummies, it's like having a tiny treat. But remember, always keep to our recommended dosage to prevent over-consumption. And keep them safely out of reach so your child doesn't mistake them for candy.
Other Strategies for Managing Temper Tantrums
Before we talk more about handling tantrums, let's remember something important.
Being a parent is tough, and tantrums can be hard to deal with.
It's okay to feel stressed sometimes. The first thing to do is to take care of yourself. Give yourself a break when you need it. Don't worry too much about what others think, and find friends who can understand.
Parenting has good times and tough times, and it's important to be kind to yourself.
Redirection
A helpful strategy that you can use is redirection. This means gently guiding your child's attention away from what's causing the tantrum and toward something else -usually positive. For example, if they're upset about not having a certain toy, you might suggest playing with a different toy or reading a book together.
Some parents follow a gentle parenting approach, which focuses on understanding and empathizing with the child's feelings while gently redirecting their focus. It can be a constructive way to help your child manage their emotions.
Time-Outs
Time-outs are short breaks when things get too intense. When your child starts a temper tantrum, gently let them know it's time for a quiet break. This break isn't about punishment. But rather an opportunity for them to take a moment to calm down and reflect on what happened. It can assist them in regaining control and adjusting their emotions before rejoining the situation.
Ignoring Tantrums
Sometimes, ignoring tantrums can work wonders. If your child realizes that tantrums don't get them what they want or a reaction out of you, they might stop doing it. Of course, always make sure they're safe while you're ignoring the tantrum.
Teaching Your Child Coping Skills
Teaching your child how to handle their feelings is like giving them the tools to navigate their emotions. Talk to them about their feelings, and help them find ways to calm down. You can suggest taking deep breaths, counting to ten, or hugging their favorite toy.
Nurture Happy Kids with First Day Kids Daily Essentials
Temper tantrums in toddlers and kids can be overwhelming but they are part of growing up. Providing your child with the right nutrition can help them manage their behavior and moods better. First Day Kids Daily Essentials are a valuable addition to your parenting toolkit. With it, you can support your child's well-being and nurture their healthy development.
Let’s ensure your child feels their best and stays on the path to a healthy future.
Discover First Day Kids Daily Essentials for Better Moods Today!
References:
Fujiana, F., Sari, L., & Murtilita. (2022). The Relationship of Parenting Patterns to Temper Tantrum Behavior in Pre-School Age Children (3-6 Years) in Suka Damai Hamlet, Segedong District. Journal of Health and Nutrition Research, 1(1), 21–28. https://doi.org/10.56303/jhnr.v1i1.2
Gómez-Pinilla, F. (2008). Brain foods: the effects of nutrients on brain function. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 9(7), 568–578. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2421
Kennedy, D. (2016). B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy—A Review. Nutrients, 8(2), 68. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8020068
Akpınar, Ş., & Karadağ, M. G. (2022). Is Vitamin D Important in Anxiety or Depression? What Is the Truth? Current Nutrition Reports. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13668-022-00441-0
