My 21 month old is obsessed with Bananas in Pyjamas. She is throwing several major tantrums dab day related to television and I'm at a loss as to what to do. She will completely lose it when I turn it off and she will completely lose it if I refuse to turn them on. At the moment it feels like the only way to avoid them would be to have them on continuous play all day. I have thought about eliminating TV altogether but I confess it's a handy distraction when I'm busy with my 8 week old baby. I also wonder if she'll just find other things to tantrum over. What do you think?
I would be inclined to try and parent her through the tantrums as best as you can without giving in. I have found a firm but kind approach the best when it comes to tantrums. Is she watching a DVD or the tv? If it just the tv, just wait until the credits run and then say 'it's time to say bye bye to the bananas now, they'll be back tomorrow' and both of you wave to the tv and then turn it off. When she starts screaming be really reassuring. 'yes I know it's hard when we have to say goodbye, it makes mummy sad too, but they'll be back tomorrow...now let's draw a picture of a banana in pjs instead...where are your crayons etc'. The idea is to validate her feelings but redirect her away from the tv.
I know tv is a trap with a new baby. For us it's play school. I let dd watch it on the computer sometimes too because it's hard when you're stuck feeding or settling the bub.
Humdinger television tantrums
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