Yelling and screaming

It can be frustrating and exhausting when your children yell and scream, especially in a public place.

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Things to try

Thumbnail: Child tantrums
  • Quickly offer help or a change of activity when your child is getting frustrated.
  • Ask them to talk to you about how they are feeling and why.
  • Stay calm and use a quiet voice.
  • Praise them when they’re being calm.
  • Respond in the same calm way when the screaming and yelling starts.
  • Work out a few family rules together. Have about five important ones that everyone in the house has to follow.

Think about

  • Is your child is screaming because they can’t express themselves with words.
  • Have they had a balance or activity, rest, noisy and quiet times?
  • If they are getting attention when they’re not yelling and screaming.
  • Asking them to use a normal voice. Don’t pay attention until they do.
  • Being consistent. It can take a while to teach new behaviour.