I've recently started watching a 10 month old baby during the day time and he throws temper tantrums worse than I've ever seen- hitting, kicking, thrashing himself all over, screaming, pulling hair... basically the works. I'm not quite sure the best way to handle the situation, because it's in reaction to just about everything. Changing his diaper, stopping him from getting into something he shouldn't, keeping him from falling off the couch, sometimes it seems as though unless he's eating or sleeping it's just one big tantrum. Part of me feels like I'm failing or doing something wrong- but his previous babysitters had the same problems. I don't know how to convey that the hitting, kicking, hair pulling, and occasionally (although I know he doesn't do it on purpose) putting his weight on my neck is NOT OK. When I try to "restrain" him from anything (holding him back, picking him up, holding his arms so he can't hit and saying "no" "that hurts" "stop" or whatever else pertains to the situation- like trying to throw himself off the couch) his tantrums get worse. Tantrums wouldn't bother me so much, but something's like changing his diaper have to be done, but it's really difficult when he's throwing a tantrum because I'm worried he's going to hurt himself, by twisting, and thrashing around while I'm trying to hold his bottom up to wipe or to put the diaper underneath him.

So basically I'm looking for tips on dealing with this kind of behavior because honestly I'm not sure what to do; nothing I've tried has worked and I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions for me?

Hi babydoll, I don't think you can really do anything about this issue with the l0 months. Old. It sounds like that little thing has some serious mental problems. Have you discussed this with the mother? She must know her child is like this. I don't think you should be taking responsibility for a child in that state just in case something happens that won't be your fault.

Tick

Sounds like you really have your hands full! I would speak to the mother about this. You should not have this diruption in your home. Are there any other children in the home? I had a son that would kind of act like this - but not while changing diapers only when he was told "No". I would not give any kind of attention to him when he would act out. Then I would praise him when he was being good. Can you start an award system with him? Nothing to fancy. Also only for short periods. Say every hour give him a sticker or a special toy to play with. Then start the process over. Good luck.

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Originally Posted by angie4443

Sounds like you really have your hands full! I would speak to the mother about this. You should not have this diruption in your home. Are there any other children in the home? I had a son that would kinda act like this - but not while changing diapers only when he was told "No". I would not give any kind of attention to him when he would act out. Then I would praise him when he was being good. Can you start an award system with him? Nothing to fancy. Also only for short periods of time. Say every hour give him a sticker or a special toy to play with. Then start the process over. Good luck.

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That is great advise, angie, but I think that little guy had more issues then anyone of us could deal with all at once. From what the description entailed, it sounded like he had some disabilities. We don't know and will probably never know, but mom should not have given a young person the responsibility of caring for him; he probably should have been under special care not everyone can afford unless they have government funding. Needless to say, I am assuming here but the description of his antics fit the bill somewhat.
Tick