Tantrums are all part of the frustration of childhood development. It is quite normal for a child of two or three to throw sudden temper fits as part of their battle of wills. Remember, they have been a baby who relied totally on adults for their few needs - food, clothing, diaper changes, warmth. Now they have become a child, an individual with their own mind working away. Yet they still do not have the capabilities of expressing exactly what they want. They certainly know what they don't want - and will let you no in no uncertain terms with a tantrum, when they start crying, yelling and screaming for no apparent reason.

The big problem, from their point of view, is that they have discovered what they like, they are developing the ability to hold a point of view. Yet they are still not allowed to exercise that choice to any great degree.

Parents just have to ride the storm. Children will gradually grow out of the tantrum period. The worst thing you can do is scream and shout back or slap the child. Be firm, but if you lose your temper, that is equivalent to your child's tantrum.

There can sometimes be worrying underlying issues to tantrums. If, for example, the child is aggressive towards you or other children, then that is totally unacceptable. Children soon learn that if they behave, they get rewarded. If they misbehave they will be punished. So, the smart ones will soon cotton on and grow out of their tantrums.

If your child's tantrums are more exaggerated than other children, there may well be an underlying reason. You should seek help because conditions such as autism can be hugely frustrating for all parties and you will need expert help to handle your child.

Try to see if there is a pattern to where your child starts his tantrums. Is in in a particular place such as the doctor's or the local store? Do certain people set him off? Does he get angry in certain clothes - it could be he is uncomfortable. Does he get angry when you pay more attention to someone else? Are you and your partner always arguing in front of your child? That could be making him very unhappy and causing his behavior.

Watch your child very closely. Remember, tantrums are normal. But if they get out of hand, seek advice from your doctor.

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