How to deal with your child's anger

Everyone gets angry. Parents get angry. Children get angry. Anger is a feeling and everyone has a right to their feelings. How feelings are expressed is what makes a difference.

Below are some tips for dealing with a child who is angry:

• Catch your child being good. When schedules are hectic, often the only time parents spend with children is to reprimand or discipline. Finding the good qualities in your children takes time, but the rewards are great.
• Ignore behavior that is inappropriate, but can be tolerated. Be sure to ignore the behavior and not the child.
• Plan ways your children can be good. Many times parents' expectations of their children's behavior is out of sync with their children's capabilities. This can result in conflict and escalating anger for parents and children.
• Use closeness and touching. Sometimes a hug can calm a child who is angry. Having someone comfort and put into control what was out of control is reassuring and calming.
• Say "no." Set boundaries and stick with them. Children need limits and structure, even when they are angry.
• Teach your children to express their anger in words. Children should learn that talking about anger is an acceptable way of handling angry feelings. Do not try to change their feelings, just listen and support them as they explain their anger.
• Be a good role model. You need to demonstrate proper ways to handle anger because your children will copy your actions.