Parenting a child with a difficult temperament is one of the most difficult processes of raising a child; every parent must try to understand their children. It is very important to know that children have different temperamental behaviours, that is, they behave differently.
A parent who finds it difficult to understand their children temperament often nags, yell and over-react, which is not good for the upbringing of a child with a difficult temperament.
Children with difficult temperament are meant to be taken care of by exhibiting a balanced level of patience, meticulous attention, extra time, guidance and communication skills which will work with, rather than against, a child’s temperament.
Signs of Temperament in Children.
- They often have Mood swings
- Chronic irritability
- They get angry easily
- Loss of control
- They often use abusive words
- They Rage in form of yelling
Parents must be very observant to the way their children behaves, they should not be left without not paying attention to their actions.
Ways in Which Parents Can Deal With Temperament in Children.
According to Karen Stephens an author of the book “Parenting Exchange” she gave the following as some of the tips of dealing with children with a difficult temperament
- Provide the fundamental things, Children well nourished with enough sleep and the right foods cope best. Daily, give children personalised time, attention, and affection
- Focus on strength, look for positive things your children do, Voice your appreciation whenever a child is flexible, positive, or adaptable.
- Avoid name-calling and labelling kids as “hyper,” problem child” or “trouble maker.”
- Keep your home calm and predictable. Loud television, music, or family arguments will stress any child, but especially those with a difficult temperament.
- Respect children’s preferences in terms of food taste, scent, and texture. It’s counter-productive to force a child to eat an egg salad sandwich if it comes up in two seconds. Role model flexibility by serving eggs in a way your child can tolerate.
- Provide more structure if a child regularly becomes overwhelmed and loses control. Maintain predictable wake-up and bedtimes, regular snack and mealtimes, and have a plan for what will happen each day. On errands, provide structure by giving your child a job to do, such as to look for a specific type of cereal as you shop.
- Create safe, cosy and calming spaces in your home where a child can relax or re-gain control when upset or over-stimulated. Remind him/her of relaxing things as such as coping strategies, a favourite stuffed animal, toy, music, or game.