Tantrums! ─ Managing Meltdowns in Public and Private

A straightforward battle plan for handling tantrums, this handy guide explains the core concepts of this powerful yet easy-to-learn program. Of all the behavioral problems parents face from their children, temper tantrums may be the most upsetting as well as the hardest to manage. Major meltdowns may also be the most potent tool kids have when it comes to training their parents to do what the children want. Moms and dads who have learned to fear tantrums have an extremely difficult time maintaining control of their homes. This guide explains the three main causes of tantrums, the two goals of tantruming children, the problem with distraction and reasoning, the power of the “The Ten-Second Rule,” a four-step process for meltdown management, and how to handle tantrums in public.

Thomas W. Phelan, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and a nationally renowned expert on child discipline and attention deficit disorder. He is the author of several books, including1-2-3 Magic, 1-2-3 Magic for Teachers, All About Attention Deficit Disorder, andSurviving Your Adolescents. He lives in Glen Ellyn, Illinois.