It is natural for young kids to sometimes show strong emotions (like anger) and destructive behavior when things do not go their way. As parents, we need to know how to teach our kids the different ways of dealing with anger. Anger should be released, but it should be in a healthy way. If you can guide your child in the ways of releasing anger the healthy way, your child will develop a calm attitude as he grows up.
Here are some of the things that you can do to help your child deal with anger the healthy way:
- Be a good example to your child. Children are quick at mimicking what they see in their parents; when they see their parents explode when angry, there is a great possibility that it is exactly what they will do when they are angry. If you are the explosive type of person, teach yourself some simple techniques in controlling your anger. (There are hundreds of articles about simple anger management techniques that you can read.) Then teach it to your child. You must explain to your child that anger is natural, and every human being experiences it sometimes. When your child understands the nature of anger, it will be easier for her to manage it.
- Guide your child when he is watching television or playing video games. The media is replete with violence, so it is important to guide your child every time he watches television or plays video games.
- Be firm with your rules and give punishment when necessary, but do not show the ugly face of anger when you are punishing your child for a bad behavior.
- When your child gets angry and shows destructive behavior, do not mirror it. It is a mistake to get angry when your child is angry; you are the parent so you should be in control. If you explode when she explodes, then everything is lost.