Offering a light snack, insisting on quiet time, helping with a toy that won't work, or cutting short a shopping trip help to avert the potential tantrum. The overcrowded, noisy grocery store may have been too much for a tired little boy. He momentarily lost control. Flexibility and patience help along with preparing the child for the confusion. Short, firm directions help the child clearly understand what is expected.
Actions also speak louder than words.
If the parent moves from a potential tantrum, the child will follow. Discovering the reasons for using tantrums as a power play could prevent their reoccurrence. An impulsive hug, a kiss, or kind words show a child that he is valued all the time. Since children do imitate their parents, how parents handle their own anger, frustration and tensions is important. Often a parent's bad habits, like kicking the dog or slamming a door are parroted by the child.