When
Toddlers Scream Themselves Sick
Your child wants to make you say 'yes' and she'll go to any lengths
to do it. Screaming, crying, drumming her heels and then being sick? When
it comes to tantrums, this is the 'nuclear' option.
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.
Avoid
the triggers
Develop avoidance tactics. Find out what triggers these extreme tantrums
by noting when they happen. Tantrums are most likely to happen when your
daughter is tired, hungry, frustrated, bored or sick. Don't pick unnecessary
fights - stop and think whether the issue is worth the effort. Avoid saying
'no' too often. Keep it for the important stuff when you need to be definite.
During
a tantrum
Stay calm and be firm. Don't shout, smack or shake your child. Ignore
her but don't leave her unattended as hysterical toddlers can hurt themselves.
After a minute or two try to distract your daughter. Keep consolation
to a minimum as it rewards your child with attention - exactly what she
wants. Don't give in or resort to bribes.
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.
NOTE
Remember, just like many other bad habits,
your daughter will grow out of this one. There are other reasons for vomiting
at will, which need medical attention. Some children have a weak valve
at the top of their stomachs and easily regurgitate food. Some children
vomit when they laugh or cry excessively. In both of these cases get your
doctor to check it out.
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