Tantrums usually start after a child's second birthday – hence the term "the terrible twos" – but can start a little earlier. At this age, children are more independent and are beginning to think about what they want and don't want to do. Distracting a child with a toy or even something wildly fascinating you've just spotted outside the window is often all it takes. Experts advise avoiding the word "no", and saying "later" or "soon" instead.
Children often copy their parents, so try to stay calm if a tantrum is brewing. They'll progressively get the idea and will settle down by...
