Why does my Toddler Scream?

There are different reasons that toddlers scream. You first need to identify what kind of scream it is.  Is he screaming out of joy or just to hear his voice? Is there something wrong, a tummy ache or are they teething? Another reason a toddler screams is as a way of getting a need fulfilled.  Usually it is because he is frustrated because he cannot express what he needs or wants.  So how can I get my toddler to stop screaming?  Try to remember he is frustrated or upset about something and that he does understand what you say.  Screaming back at your little one will not help and will only escalate the situation.  Try to figure out what is upsetting him and fulfill that need.  If you cannot fill his need, try to nicely explain on his level what is wrong, or at the least, acknowledge that he wants something.  Any help is better than no help.  If he is upset because he can't reach the cookies and it's dinner time, nicely and calmly say, "You have to eat your chicken and peas before you can have a cookie." I think one of the biggest mistakes parents make is underestimating what a child can understand.  Even newborns can feel tension or frustration in someones voice, especially if it is from their parent.  Children from a very young age understand the language that is spoken in their home.  Just because they cannot speak yet does not mean that they do not understand what someone is saying.  Just the other day my 15 month old wanted a snack.  I told her she couldn't have it until she ate her spaghetti.  She looked at her spaghetti and started to eat it again.  But when she was done eating her spaghetti, I was sure to give her the snack. She may not have remembered at that moment that she was told she would get a snack, but you are helping to teach her trust that will stay with her throughout her life. 

It may take a couple days or even longer for him to get out of the screaming stage and to find that he can make a noise without screaming and will get the attention he needs.  But remember to pay attention to him when he makes his "aa aa aa" noises, or he will scream again!

The article found here is only the opinion of the author and should not take the place or a doctors opinion.