Toddler Times
Since When Do New Toys Merit Huge Tantrums?
Do you see that completely awesome T-Rex helmet on my toddler’s head?
Well, he may look pretty pleased in this photo, but this comes only after four hours of a complete refusal to even be in the same room with the helmet. In fact, when he was first presented with this item, which we thought he would do back flips over, he threw a huge crying fit, as if this helmet was perhaps the worst thing he had ever laid eyes on.
We all stood there and watched him go berserk, not sure whether we should reprimand him for his over-the-top antics, or just laugh. I really just wanted to say, “Seriously, kid? You LOVE dinosaurs and helmets. This is a DINOSAUR HELMET.”
This is how my toddler operates. He has a complete meltdown when presented with something new. I understand what is probably happening in his little mind, but I wonder if this behavior is a sign of his personality, or just another symptom of toddlerhood.
Once he gets it in his head that he doesn’t want to do something, it’s all over. He has to process the situation, and come to terms with it on his own time. This sometimes makes trying new things while out in public completely impossible, and I have to admit, it is a little frustrating for me when he refuses to try something new.
Do you think my toddler will eventually stop being so resistant to new things, or is this really a sign of his underlying personality?
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3 Comments
Combatbootsmama commented on Feb 26 12 at 3:45 pmLol every once in a while my kid will throw a tantrum about getting something they didn’t want. Like a donut instead of candy or something. Usually I just shrug and say “Well it’s that or nothing. If you don’t like it I can take it back.” that usually stops them immediately. I’ve rarely had any continuing arguments after that. After though, I explain that they can’t always get what they want and to appreciate that we can get treats.
I feel for ya though. Tantrums are like the “Make Mommy Crazy” button lol.
Janet commented on Mar 26 12 at 4:32 pmThat is an awesome helmet. Where did you get it?
TS commented on May 10 12 at 9:33 amThis is funny to laugh at when he’s a toddler. Just make sure if it’s still happening as he gets older, you watch for underlying issues such as autism. Otherwise, just give him plenty of heads up. My son… even at 7 we have to give him a heads up for everything (5 minutes till bedtime, we’re leaving when that show is over, list of the places we’re running errands too etc) or it’s a much harder process. If you give your son a few minutes heads up, even when you’re out and about, it might help. i.e. Oh look, here comes Becky’s mom (when she’s a few feet away). We’re gonna talk for a few minutes. She might want to give you a hug. or We’re going to the store and the gas station then home. Yay, we’re finished at the store. We just have to get gas and go home. Seems simple but that really allows kids organize their thoughts before hand and be prepaired for the bombardment of stimulation.
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