Tantrums: Breath-Holding And Throwing Up
Holding her breath or throwing up to order are two great ways to ensure your child gets your attention. But your response will determine whether this Grade A tantrum-throwing goes any further.
Present
a united front
The best way to stop this kind of behaviour is by ignoring it so make
sure that friends, relatives and babysitters are all 'on-message'. After
the event, minimise the attention you give to the attack and don't talk
about it.
Passing Out
It is quite common for a child to pass out during
this kind of tantrum but you need to make sure that only the temper tantrum
is to blame. Ask your GP to check your daughter's general health.
If
she jerks and twitches before or after passing out something may be wrong.
In a breath-holding attack, a child that passes out will quickly regain
consciousness, so if your child takes time to recover you must seek immediate
medical attention.
Make sure your child is in a safe environment,
as she may hurt herself when she passes out. If your child falls during
an attack, you should consult your doctor to make sure no injuries have
occurred. Explain your child's behaviour and danger signs to anyone else
who cares for your child.
Throwing Up
Vomiting on demand is most common among 12-24 mth-olds and it's extremely stressful for both of you. At this age, tantrums are more of a reflex action than a premeditated decision to challenge your authority. Shocking though it is, don't give in.
Clean Up Operation
When your daughter vomits, do not make a fuss, as she will realise that this is an excellent way of getting noticed. Change her clothes and clean up in a calm and matter-of-fact way, however agitated you feel. You know she's not 'ill' so don't worry. You'll want to comfort her but that won't help her to stop. Keep a bucket or plastic bowl handy. Have a change of clothes in the kitchen cupboard to minimise the disturbance.
If these tantrums occur outside the house, carry a change of clothes and sick bags in your handbag. Ignore other people's reaction - she's not their daughter - and behave as you would at home. Warn her that if she misbehaves at someone's house she will be taken home. Carry your threat through calmly and quickly.
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