TANTRUMS - Part 3

Throwing up and breath holding

Toddlers soon learn that screaming and crying is a good way of getting attention.  However, some toddlers take things a step further.  They hold their breath until they go blue in the face or seem to be able to vomit on demand.  The thing that will determine whether or not this behaviour continues is how you respond to it.

Throwing up

Vomiting is very stressful for you and for your child.  It is most common in toddlers aged between 1 – 2 years.  At this age, it is more of a reflex action rather than a deliberate act of defiance.  Try to stay calm.  Don’t give in to your child’s demands.

The clean up

Clean up in a matter-of-fact way, without making a fuss.  If you pay too much attention to your child when he or she vomits, they will soon realise that it is a brilliant way of getting your attention. 

Be prepared

Keep a plastic bowl handy and a change of clothes downstairs, so that you can clear up quickly with the minimum of fuss.   
Take a change of clothes with you when you go out and carry a sick bag. 

Breath-holding

This is a scary experience for the parent, but not usually dangerous for the child.  Four out of every 20 toddlers, on average, use breath holding as a response to frustration.  The best course of action is to try and ignore it. 

What happens?

Their face turns blue and they briefly lose consciousness.  At that point, the brain takes over and the child will start to breath again. 
 

Is it dangerous?

Distressing as it is, breath holding does not cause long term problems.  Like most tantrums, children tend to grow out of it by the age of five.

Warning:  However, if your child loses consciousness for any length of time, telephone your doctor immediately and get them checked out.

Top Tips

Treat throw up and breath holding the same as any other tantrum.  The best way to deal with it is to ignore it.  Make sure that anyone who looks after your child, friends, grandparents are on board.

• Use distraction
• Stay calm
• Ignore it
• Give minimal attention to your child when they throw up or breath hold
• Give your child attention when they behave well