Intense Mood Swings in Your 20 Months Old
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Your toddler’s emotions might get the better of her every once in a while. If her brother or friend happens to tap her, she might go from smiling to crying in under a minute. What brings on these 20-month-old toddler mood swings? Experts say it is all part of growing up.
It’s important to understand your toddler’s mercurial temperament. Instead of adding fuel by chastising her, learning to deal and adapt with it is important. This doesn’t mean that she can always get her way. Laying down a few ground rules is imperative at her age. Taking care of your stress levels is also important. There are quite a few reasons why toddlers have mood swings and there are ways to deal with them too.
Ways to Control Mood Swings in Toddlers
1. Identifying The Problem
Frustration often leads to toddlers breaking down into tears. They may not be able to express themselves properly. You might disrupt her play session at a time when she may not be ready to give up her toys. It’s your job to identify the trigger that sets off her mood swings. Be more sensitive around her. If she likes to eat early, don’t feed her after a certain time. This way, toddler mood swings can be nipped in the bud.
2. Divert Attention
Toddlers tend to throw a tantrum when they cannot have what they want. They don’t understand that certain objects could pose a threat to their well-being. However, the good news is that they can be easily distracted. If she wants to play with the vegetable knife, don’t give in to her desires. Distract her by drawing her attention to a safe toy. Use her short attention span to divert her attention and prevent a possible meltdown. Mood disorders in toddlers can pose a threat if not controlled.
3. Uncontrollable Emotions
Toddlers have no control over their emotions. They can’t distinguish between right and wrong. So, if you tell her to come out of the bathtub, she may throw a tantrum. How to deal with toddlers’ mood swings in such a scenario? Calmly tell her that she has other important activities to take part in. Coming out of the bathtub could delay the tea party she has planned for her dolls. Inform her about the emotion she is feeling. It’s a win-win, we think!
4. Transition Trouble
Toddlers don’t like being disturbed. They are not yet familiar with the transitions that come with age. When they are in the zone and doing something, a transition could trigger a tantrum. Explain to your child that there is a routine that must be followed throughout the day. So, if you were wondering what causes mood swings in toddlers, you now have your answer.
The reasons for moodiness in toddlers are few, but potent. Dealing with your toddler’s mood swings might not be your idea of fun. However, who said toddler development is a walk in the park? Have the patience to work through this phase. You’ll be surprised at how adept you are at dealing with her when she enters her teen years.
How have you managed to deal with your toddler’s mood swings? Let us know in the comments below.
