Temper tantrums may sometimes occur without warning. They may take place at home, in the car, or while seated in a quiet restaurant. The level of tantrums varies, and some parents are able to calm their toddler without causing a full blown disruption. However, regardless of how mild or severe an episode may be, parents are always looking for practical ways to stop temper tantrums altogether. To avoid an outburst, some parents simply give in to a child's request – but this does not solve the problem. If anything, allowing the child to win the battle will give the impression that making a fuss is the way to get what you want. Discouraging tantrums requires patients and consistency. Here are a few tips to help smooth anger spells.

React Calmly

• The key to calming a child is remaining calm. Naturally, parents who deal with frequent tantrums during the day may begin to lose their cool. However, yelling will likely upset the child, and make the problem worse. Don't get me wrong – parents should take control over the situation. Looking the child directly in the eyes and talking in a stern calm tone will give the message that the parent means business.

Encourage Communication

• If a child is of age where they are able to talk, parents should calmly inquire of why they are upset. If the child refuses to calm down, parents should walk out of the room and explain that when the child is ready to act like a big boy or girl, they will return to discuss the matter.