Steffi,
*Pat on back*. I can fully understand on crying loud. My G is one classic one too. Need lots of patience but am sure she will be fine. G is more intense in terms of emotions, also translates into more determination (positive view). Some mommies here had witnessed her tantrumatic cry before (Thank God it is much less often now) and were rather shock. Can see in their faces..haha. Even the classes I brought her, some teachers appear to be scared of her and couldn't conceal the look of "I wish she won't sign up".
That is why I had been bringing her to classes where the teacher is confident enough to handle her and help her. But I figure as she grows older I will have to teach her to deal with different kinds of teachers coz don't think we can choose teachers in primary school. So, hopefully before that she will learn a few things about getting alone with others and handling her emotions, self- control etc...In G case, I can see some improvement overtime. There are less of the big volcanic erruptions. Only times she really lose it is if she gets really tired due to lack of sleep (and sometimes my oversight on her limit.
)
Reference to Playful Parenting, which I have read only bits and pieces, I learnt something about tantrums. Lawrence Cohen said something like - the kids also have stress built up over time. And if adults know how to vent out in healthier ways such as sports, eating etc...kids' easiest way out is to cry. Sometimes the trigger may be the smallest thing of all but it open the flood gates and the kid may just cry out long and loud to let out the built-up tensions over a period of time. The easiest way out for parents is either bribe or threaten or isolate them (timeout). Whereas L Cohen suggests to bring them to a quieter place and sit within safe distance (far enough so that you wont get kick). Let them cry and talk to them in assuring and calm voice. Acknowledge their emotions. Hug and love them when they stop. Then only can reason with them.
He suggests caregivers to ask ourselves a few questions:
-What do you think the child is trying to express through the tantrums?
-After a tantrum is your child happier, more relaxed, confident, connected, cooperative, or engaged?
-What is the family's usual reaction or response to the tantrum?
-What have you tried to do to end the tantrums?
-Is there a pattern to the tantrums?
Can try to get hold of a copy from library if you are interested. Lots of good tips that I am learning from the book.
School
She didn't cry this morning. We dressed her up and Daddy sent her to school. She didn't cry when the teacher took her in the class to be seated. *Phew*.
With the tip from Playful Parenting, I played with her last night and just make sure we had fun and laughter. A bit of roll play so that she can be the teacher and I be her - a way to release her feelings/frustrations. Then this morning, I woke her up and get her to drink milk before I put on her favourite DVD, the Little Einsteins. I dressed her while she watched. When it was time to get her to school, I tickled her on top of her head and "washed" it down her body to the toes and told her "Mommy shower you with courage and love". I did that a few time and she was giggling away. She asked me to go sit in the car with her. So, we got in the car and Daddy took a small drive around and dropped me home before he drove off. I guess with all the fun and encouragement, it helps. Well, next Monday is another challenge after the weekend.
Rodeo,
13 Jan? Sunflower, you also looking at Tamp's branch? I think I won't bring G. The last time I didn't really took in much info becuase she was with me.
Shortening nap...didn't work. She still "tong" until past 10.30pm. So I decided to let her sleep her near 2 hour beauty nap. This morning she looked more rested. Think that helps set her mood for the day.
Lyn,
Mindchamp is not for G for now coz don't need CC..
Plus still think home is the best place. She loves to be at home though going out is fun. G is not entitled to subsidies...
