Part 1—-
Tantrums are a typical part of a child’s development. When children have a behavior that we may not think is appropriate, we should stop and think, “What are they trying to communicate to me?” Behavior is communication. Infants and toddlers do not always have the language or the ability to express their feelings with words or appropriate behaviors. As their caregivers, we need to come up with ways to support children during these moments and ways to support how they learn to regulate.
What is a child experiencing when he or she is having a tantrum? How do you usually handle toddler tantrums? What would you do to support a child who is having a tantrum and help the child learn new ways to express emotions?
PART 2—
Purpose
The purpose of the reflective journal is for you to reflect on your values, perceptions, and beliefs about caring for infants and toddlers.
Expectation
These journal entries should be at least 1 paragraph in length. You will be graded on the depth of your responses to each question. There is no right or wrong answer—just your thoughts. I will provide feedback through questions that may ask you to dig deeper. These assignments are eligible for resubmission.
Reflective Prompt
When children have tantrums or challenging behaviors, it can bring up feelings about the behavior and the child. Growing up, we were taught about appropriate and inappropriate behaviors within our families. Those values, perceptions, and beliefs follow us throughout our lives. In a classroom, we need to acknowledge our feelings within ourselves and then move forward in supporting the child.
What behaviors “push your buttons”? When a child is doing a behavior that is “pushing your buttons,” how are you feeling? How can you acknowledge your feelings and then proceed to support the child?