13 Simple Strategies for Strict Parents to Calm Kids During Tantrums

Temper tantrums can be challenging for any parent, but for those following a stricter parenting style, managing these outbursts is especially important. Staying consistent, calm, and in control takes practice but pays off by helping children learn boundaries and self-regulation.

With structured responses and firm yet compassionate guidance, you can turn tantrums into teachable moments. Here are 13 practical techniques to keep tantrums from escalating while reinforcing the values you want to instill in your child.

Table of Contents

Remain Calm and Composed

Your child is watching how you react. Staying calm helps prevent the tantrum from escalating and teaches your child emotional control by example.

Set Clear Expectations

Explain the behavior you expect before entering a situation that could trigger a tantrum. This proactive approach reduces surprises and reinforces boundaries.

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Stick to Consistent Consequences

Establish consequences for tantrums and apply them consistently. Consistency teaches children that their actions have predictable outcomes, helping them to understand limits.

Avoid Giving In to Demands

If your child throws a tantrum to get something, resist giving in. Yielding only reinforces that they can achieve their goal with outbursts, which fuels future tantrums.

Use Time-Outs Strategically

Time-outs can help a child calm down while showing that tantrums won’t achieve the desired effect. Use them sparingly to give the child time to reset.

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Practice Firm but Gentle Discipline

Express your rules firmly but kindly. Harshness can worsen tantrums, while a steady, caring tone shows that discipline is about guidance, not punishment.

Offer Controlled Choices

Provide choices that allow the child some control, such as picking between two acceptable options. This diffuses the tantrum by giving them a sense of autonomy.

Validate Their Feelings

Let your child know it’s okay to feel frustrated or sad. Validating their emotions helps them feel understood, reducing the intensity of the tantrum.

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Set Routines and Stick to Them

Routines offer structure that children depend on. Following consistent routines minimizes surprises, making children feel more secure and reducing tantrum triggers.

Teach “Calm Down” Techniques

Show them simple breathing or counting exercises they can use when upset. Teaching self-soothing methods helps them manage big emotions more independently.