Let’s talk toddler tantrums. You know, the one where you’re at the shops and your child is bright red in the face and screaming as you try and negotiate your way out of it just to make it back to the safety of your car. And all you can feel are those penetrating stares from other shoppers … not that you would know if they are actually staring because there’s no way you’re looking anyone in the face right now (but you can feel their judgement burning through the back of your head all the same). 

This time of year these scenes can become all too frequent, whether at the shops or in the home and with Christmas just around the corner and weekends filled with parties, late nights and party food galore, it’s no wonder our kids are hyped up and beside themselves with excitement.  

But just how do you know if your child is experiencing a food related toddler tantrum (FRTT) or just acting their age? Let’s look at 3 typical signs your child might be exhibiting if they are having a food related toddler tantrum:

1. They complain of a sore stomach shortly after eating ‘party food’ they wouldn’t normally eat such as jelly, fairy bread, coloured icing etc.
2. They are easily upset and quite sensitive even 2-3 days post party. 
3. They are quick to cry, scream and lash out when they can normally be reasoned with.

While these may seem like normal toddler behaviours, what you are looking for are extremes. Rather than just putting it down to ‘just one of those days’, it’s important to think about what could be causing it so that you can not only handle the situation properly, but also be prepared for future FRTT’s.  

But what do you do if your child is experiencing FRTT’s?

  • The first step is recognising that the behaviour is food related. Food journals are great for documenting food related behavioural issues. 
  • As hard as it is when you’ve had the day from hell with a FRTT, it’s important to constantly remind yourself that this is the cause of their behaviour. Their behaviour is extreme and not the norm. Try and keep them calm and continue to reason with them.
  • Limit stimulation. If possible, keep activities calm and simple until the tantrum passes. Again, this can take a day or two.
  • And most importantly – Explain to your child why they are feel they way they do. Sit down with them and explain that we only eat those foods sometimes because they make our bodies feel unwell. 


As a health conscious parent myself, I find it hard to let my daughter eat whatever she likes when it comes to parties, knowing how it is going to affect her later. But I’m learning to let go and accept that I can’t control everything. All we can do as health conscious parents is educate our children and fill them with nourishing food at home in the hope that they will go on to make healthy choices  throughout their lives. After all, it is their journey and your job to guide the way. 

Have you experienced a FRTT? What do you do when this happens? I would love to hear about your experiences! Please comment on the blog or on our Facebook page.  

 
 
Disclaimer:
The information on this page is general information and should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Do not use the information found on this page as a substitute for professional health care advice. Any information you find on this page or on external sites which are linked to on this page should be verified with your professional health care provider. Katie Harding does not make any representation or warranty (express or implied) as to the accuracy or completeness of the information set out on this page, and shall not have any liability for any misrepresentation (express or implied) contained in, or for any omissions from, the information on this page. This disclaimer of liability applies to any damages or injury whether based upon consumer law, negligence or any other cause of action.

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