It is quite common with toddlers to throw tantrums over what you perceive to be a small thing. In such circumstances, it can be difficult for parents to handle their kids, especially while trying to make them eat. If a child throws a tantrum while eating by closing their mouth shut, the immediate reaction of parents can be to forcefully feed them, which leads to them having an outburst. So, what should one do to avoid such a situation? Or rather, how can a parent tackle the tantrum of their kid better?
Setting rules
As parents, it is important to set rules. When your child turns one, implement some simple rules which the child can understand. If your child throws away the food while eating, as a punishment remove the food item from them. After 20-30 minutes, try to feed your child again. Your child will gradually learn not to throw food.
Make mealtime fun
Kids get bored quite easily and can be distracted quickly too. If they see the same dish every day, they will be bored with the taste. You can adopt some fun and innovative methods to make them eat their food. You can either add some colours, garnish or make various shapes out of food. You can also narrate a story and share an incident from your day to keep them glued to your story while they finish their meal.
Do not surrender
When kids become stubborn, it is important for parents to not succumb to their tantrums as it can spoil them. Be strict with them while feeding them and explain firmly in simple words that their throwing a tantrum is wrong and their demands will not be fulfilled by crying or insistence.
Let the kids eat by themselves
Toddlers love to eat food with their hands. While they can be a bit messy, it is important to let them eat by themselves. You can consider making them finger foods, or let them eat fruits or cooked vegetables which they will be able to hold easily in their hands.
Keep them away from distractions
Make sure to let your child eat without any distractions. Parents often switch on the TV or give them a mobile phone so that the child eats without throwing a tantrum. But, this is not a good practice in the long run. Instead, talk to your child while they eat. You can ask them about the colours they see on the plate or how the food tastes to them.
