Frustrating for all!
When a child is unable to express what they want verbally, it can leave parents and the child in a tough spot. Children resort to tantrums when they don't feel understood and parents get frustrated not knowing what they want.
What is your expressive language like ?
As caregivers, we need to step back and take a look at the role we are playing when it comes to assisting our child to speak. Do you anticipate what he wants and give it to him before he attempts to ask for it? Do you use long
sentences/explanations with your little one? Start with short simple phrases and wait for any effort made to speak or communicate. If they make an initial sound or use sign language, then give them the item. Progressively demand more effort each time.
Use play!
I love using play therapy in my sessions. Figure out what your kid is into and meet them there. Using 1-2 words paired with high affect (exaggerated facial expressions with high intonation of voice) begin to label toys/play. For example, "wow!
Train! Crash!" Each time you play add a new word or two. I have my families make a list of words that are important for their family and start there.
How to handle the tantrums
This is the hardest part if you ask me.
Every second a kid is in "tantrum mode" can feel like an hour. But we have to remember that this is happening because the language isn't there yet. Here is where you step in and narrate for him "You're mad/lake's mad" "it's hard" (remember to keep it short). Match his emotions with your voice and facial expressions. Do this for happy moments too, "I'm happy/Jake's happy" and do it for yourself throughout the day because they're always listening "Mommy's happy/mad/sleepy/hungry".
Tip: If you can't understand what your kid is saying/wants, say "show me" and reach your hand out so they can walk you over to what they want.
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