Once a temper tantrum has started, which of the following is generally considered the most effective strategy for a caregiver to manage the situation?

• A. Remain calm and avoid giving in to the child's demands during the tantrum
• B. Ignore the child completely and leave the room
• C. Immediately offer the child a reward to stop the tantrum
• D. Raise your voice to assert control over the child

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that temper tantrums are emotional outbursts common in young children, often triggered by frustration or inability to communicate needs effectively.
2. Recognize that the caregiver's response can either reinforce or help reduce the frequency and intensity of tantrums.
3. Evaluate each strategy: ignoring the child completely may lead to feelings of abandonment; offering immediate rewards can reinforce tantrum behavior; raising your voice might escalate the situation.
4. Identify that remaining calm helps model emotional regulation for the child and avoiding giving in prevents reinforcing the tantrum as a successful strategy to get demands met.
5. Conclude that the most effective approach is to stay calm and consistent, providing a stable environment that discourages tantrums over time.