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Tantrums are a normal and anticipated aspect of early childhood. However, when they go beyond a certain stage, it can be indicative of a deeper issue.
Early intervention can improve coping skills and reduce frustration.
Every parent has been there – the sudden meltdown in a supermarket aisle, the tears over a toy, or the refusal to leave the playground. Tantrums are a hallmark of early childhood, most common between 18 months and 4 years of age, when children are still learning how to manage big emotions and communicate effectively. While frustrating, these episodes are often a normal part of development and typically fade as children gain better language skills and coping mechanisms.
But what happens when the tantrums don’t fade? When they grow louder, longer, or more aggressive? According to Dr. Himani Narula Khanna, Developmental Behavioural Paediatrician and Adolescent Mental Health Expert, Co-Founder of Continua Kids, “Tantrums are expected in the early years, but if they become frequent, prolonged, or come with aggression and social delays, it’s important to consider whether there’s an underlying issue with a child’s brain health.”
Knowing When Tantrums Are More Than Tantrums
Most children outgrow tantrums with time and support. However, certain warning signs can indicate something deeper at play. “If a child is having tantrums more than twice a day, or if each one lasts longer than 10–15 minutes, that’s a red flag,” explained Dr. Khanna. Prolonged, daily outbursts suggest difficulties with emotional regulation that may require professional evaluation.
Aggression or self-harming behaviours during tantrums are also concerning. “When you see head-banging, biting, or harming others frequently, it’s not just frustration. It signals that the child needs help,” she noted.
Signs That Point to Developmental Concerns
Sometimes, tantrums occur alongside other developmental issues, such as delays in speech or social interaction. “Children with autism, for example, often show additional signs like poor name response, lack of eye contact, and trouble engaging in play,” Dr. Khanna highlighted. Persistent tantrums that worsen with age and affect home, school, or social life should never be ignored.
Seeking Help Early
Parents often fear that consulting a specialist means their child will be labelled. Dr. Khanna reassures otherwise: “Seeing a developmental paediatrician doesn’t mean labeling a child. It means helping them at the right time. Early intervention can equip children with coping skills, enhance communication, and reduce frustration.”
She emphasises that behaviour is always a form of communication. “Instead of disciplining or punishing, try to understand what your child is expressing. Once you identify the need, you can teach them better ways to cope,” Dr Khanna adds.
Trusting Your Parenting Instincts
If something feels “off,” it probably is. Seeking help early benefits not just the child but the entire family dynamic. As Dr. Khanna put it, “Shifting your perspective from discipline to understanding can be transformative in your parenting journey.” Professional support can make a significant difference not just for your child, but for the whole family.
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