1. Model anger management. Mommy is feeling very angry right now, so I m going to take time to be alone and get some self-control.

2. Show respect. Don t participate by calling names or getting physical.

3. Give them words to express their anger. I know you are disappointed, or sad or frustrated.

4. Identify with their pain. I remember when I didn t get to go to a party.&

5. Set positive limits. Instead of saying, Don t you throw that doll, say, After you put the doll on the table, we can go have snack.

6. Redirect energy bursts that often come with anger. Encourage positive outlets like running, jumping, blowing into a horn or painting.

7. Avoid power struggles with your child. They re always lose-lose situations. If your goal is to control, you will teach him to control others.

8. Provide a cooling-off period by reading a book together or going on a walk. Then calmly discuss what happened and make a plan for next time.

– Lynne M. Thompson