Public meltdown

How do you all handle a pulic meltdown (for instance when we are riding the bus)

Their tantrums Not usually uncontrollable - and I could easily have them stop by giving them what they would like... Is it a public wrong not to? And to let them have their scream

Today we were riding the bus and Nils was repeatedly throwing his toy car onto the floor (it's lots of fun watching mum pick it up) ... After the third time I told him 'no more' and said I wouldnt be picking it up again without a 'please mummy' (which he does say on his good days)

I think you can imagine what followed.
I let him have his scream and he didn't stop until we were off the bus!!

What would you have done?

 

that's a tough one. i probably would have gotten off the bus if i couldn't calm them down, but that sucks all the way around. especially if you're on a route that has a large gap between buses. i would feel i would need to stick to what i said though, but i would feel bad for the other passengers.

 

I agree. Normally if we are in public and one of the kids has a meltdown, I will try to get them to a quieter area just to get them to calm down...but I know that is not possible on a bus.

 

I think you did the right thing. Kids need to learn that discipline won't be any different in public then it is at home. Mommy & Daddy are still the boss, and still have the power, no matter where you are. If you start to give in, they'll learn they can walk all over you any time you're in public!

I know its painful, and oh so embarrassing, but I am proud of you for sticking to your guns and I'm sure all the other Mommies on the bus were too!!

 

This. I always stick to my rules no matter where we are.

 

I agree - follow through on your rules, no matter where you are.

If possible I try to avoid a big meltdown in places where it seriously inconveniences people, but sometimes there is no way to avoid it. I have learnt that most people do understand, especially mothers, and admire you for suffering through this without losing your calm - and I have learnt to ignore the ones who don't.

 

I very much think you need to stick with your discipline. However, a screaming child is a safety hazard for the driver so I probably wouldn't subject him/her to that. Could you try giving them a snack or book on the bus instead of a toy? Would that make them feel less likely to throw it? GL! Public tantrums are SO frustrating.

 

AGREED. It's tough and embarrassing, but so much better for next time!

 

thanks everyone the boys are usually lovely to take on bus's and out to lunch/coffee but they do have their moments...

today we have had a please BREAKTHROUGH - (Forbes has always been polite, his first word was actually thankyou at about 11 months) today Nils has been saying 'please' on demand!

now just working on having them say it instinctively