It’s often difficult to remain calm in the midst of a toddler’s
storm. However, it is totally possible to redirect, or even
teach your child when tempers are surging. Try one simple
technique of breathing which is calming, and forcing deep
breaths. The next time you feel frustrated, need to gain
control, or address a misbehavior, take the time to smell the
roses. Bring your fingers to your nose, as if holding a bouquet
of rose buds, and breathe in, very deeply. Now, as if holding a
lit candle in your left palm, blow it out, long and slow,
exhaling everything. Even a young child can learn how to self-
regulate, as he watches you take control by taking time to smell
the roses! There are several other, very effective breathing,
self-regulating techniques which children love to practice in
the car or before bed. Take time to teach your child one
technique each week, and within just over a month, you can
prompt him to “fill up like a balloon”, “become a pretzel”,
“drain out all the water (and stress!)”, and more. C