Mommy's Little Demons and How to Handle Them

We've all been there. That moment where your kid is acting up, acting out, or does something that makes you want to lose your mind. The moment of pure shock that your child would say or do something like that. Whether it is a temper tantrum or just your kid picking that moment to be a complete asshole. I can tell you that I have most definitely been there. There have even been times that I have wanted to move to Canada and change my name. I'm going to give you my advice on how to handle the situation without losing your shit!

1. The most important thing is not to freak out or laugh. Yes, I am definitely guilty of both of these, especially laughing. I try to remember that these types of reactions give the wrong impression to the child. Hardly ever does a situation warrant yelling or freaking out. Laughing makes the child think that what they have done is acceptable. It's hard to make them understand that the behavior is bad because you laughed at it.

2. Remove yourself from the situation, when possible. Yes, I realize how hard this is. Yes, I realize that most of the time you are alone when things like this happen. Put the kid in their room, in their crib, or put on a show. Take a few minutes to collect yourself. It's important that you are in the right headspace to deal with the situation.

3. Take deep calming breaths and count down from 5. Calming breaths not only help you to relax, they help you to start to gather your thoughts. Sometimes, situations can warrant doing this a few times.

4. Sit down and explain to the child, why what they did was wrong. Explain a better way that they can ask for something or tell you that they are having a bad day. Now, this only works on children over 2. For younger kids, you just have to calm them down and continue on with your day.

Every situation and every child is different. There will be times when you are unable to remove yourself from the situation. You will be driving or at the store. You'll be at someone's house or at an amusement park. You have to remain in control or they will walk all over you. We all have bad days and so do they. If you lose your shit, don't beat yourself up. We have all been there as well. Try to keep a level head and stay calm. You've got this!