Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

DS is 6 and he has been so awful lately (when he's good he's perfect but when he's bad...). He cries, stamps his feet, hits the wall and yells "stupid" when he doesn't get his way. I feel like he is unappreciative, greedy and acting like such a brat and it's killing me. I want him to be thankful for what he does have instead of asking for things every day. (I blame my parents and inlaws for this, WE do not spoil him). I know it's not that out of the ordinary but I was hoping that by 6 he would have gotten out of this kind of behavior. Anyone in the same boat or have advice?

Re: Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

Yes.

DS was the first grandchild and also the only one on my side.

He basically gets whatever he wants too. I rarely have to buy him anything because he's taken care of through both sides of the family.

I have various theories as to why he acts up though and they all really have to do with getting attention.

He's an only child (his cousins who are his best friends he sees daily have each other). Also DH and I work long hours outside of the home so I admit it's sometimes easier to just give into him then go back and forth when it's late and we are both already exhausted from work.

The main thing that causes a problem in our house is the IPad.

When we don't give in he will tantrum for a bit but always gets over it.

He won't shut up about freakin' minecraftt though.

I actually have started to use this as a threat when he go out in public......you act up, you ask for stuff, etc. you won't get the IPad....

Re: Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

When ds was five he would behave that way. I think it is an age thing. I really tried to reign it in. Ds still asks for everything and I repeat how we don't get everything, how we need to be satisfied with what we do have, how there will always be something newer, better, faster. I also try to stress the importance of volunteering, donating time and money and things too.


I have also been trying to explain the value of money and having money work for us, rather than working for money.

I have been explaining the markets to him as well as how much things cost, and what else we need to spend our money on and budgeting. Hopefully one of these days it will stick and sink in.

As for electronics we have a strict policy on it. Although we have the technology we really limit the amount of time they are allowed to play on it. They know they have to do their chores and summer work before they can either play video games or watch tv. I prefer that they play with their friends or play board games over sitting in front of TV in the summer. I would rather they enjoy the fresh air.

Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

the other day my 4.5 year old told me if i don't take him to the store to get a toy he's going to punch me in the face. nice, huh? needless to stay he spent the rest of the night in his room.

Re: Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

Re: Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

Posted by MorningCuppaCoffee

Posted by IansMommy23

the other day my 4.5 year old told me if i don't take him to the store to get a toy he's going to punch me in the face. nice, huh? needless to stay he spent the rest of the night in his room.

I've gotten much worse.



I've spoken to people who say it's normal apparently.

Re: Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

My DD (5.5) told me she hated me a few months ago. A shining moment as a parent.

Re: Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

My son is 4 and this thread is comforting. I've recently wondered if his behavior is "normal" with respect to tantrums.

It has gotten better since we dropped his nap and he is going to bed at a more reasonable hour but MAN the tantrums and whining are TOUGH.

We have found that the best thing is totally ignoring it. They are much shorter. Less intense. TOTALLY ignore any whining, tantrum, screaming, demanding. We just walk away.

Ugh, I cannot wait for it to end Does it ever end?

Re: Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

DS does present with some ADHD stuff, which is another thread entirely, but his Dev Ped recommended melatonin which we've been giving him and it's a miracle.

He can really act psychotic especially when tired and this is a huge help.

You can buy it at those health stores in liquid form.

I just mix it with a cup of juice.

Re: Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

I think its somewhat normal! My son doesnt do the stamping and such. He just cries. my MIL calls it the I Love Lucy cry because its so fake, yet he has real tears.

I keep reminding him, he never gets what he wants when he cries, but he just cant help himself!

He is 6 too! He can be great, fantastic and such but lately 50% of the time he is fresh and bratty. I miss my little boy who was always smiling and happy! Anyway alot of my friends have similar issues with their kids! I always feel better when I hear someone having similar experiences because for awhile I thought I was raising a spoiled brat!!

Re: Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

Message edited 8/3/2014 12:53:15 PM.

Re: Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

My pediatrician said kids should outgrow tantrums by age 6. If you are concerned, maybe see a specialist?

Re: Do all kids throw tantrums when they don't get what they want?

Posted by MorningCuppaCoffee

Posted by IansMommy23

the other day my 4.5 year old told me if i don't take him to the store to get a toy he's going to punch me in the face. nice, huh? needless to stay he spent the rest of the night in his room.

I've gotten much worse.



I've spoken to people who say it's normal apparently.