Article: Avoid trying to reason with any child who is in the middle of a full-blown tantrum. Give them time to vent. Instead, give the child phrases to express the emotions that they are experiencing. Say phrases like, "You must be really tired after such a long day," or, "You must feel frustrated that you can't have what you want right now." This not only will help the child verbalize this later, but shows empathy without having to give in. At this point, you may find that your best option is giving the child space until they calm down. If your toddler is having a complete meltdown, and there's no way they will be responsive to a rational conversation, sometimes quiet time is the best method. Tell them it's time to be quiet until they can calm down and feel better. Remain calm yourself to model good behavior for your child. Don't use quiet time as a threat or punishment, but rather as a way to give your child space so they can calm down. The child's bedroom or another safe place in the house where you feel comfortable leaving them alone for a little while is best. The spot should be free of distractions such as a computer, TV or handheld video game. Choose a quiet, peaceful place that the child associates with feeling calm. Don't lock the child in a room. This can be dangerous and will be interpreted as a punishment. This will help your child to understand that you are ignoring them because their behavior is unacceptable, not because you don't care about them. When the child calms down, fulfill your part of the bargain by discussing the tantrum and the child's concerns. When your child is no longer having a fit, have a conversation about what happened. Without berating your child or taking an accusatory tone, ask why they were upset. Provide a clear explanation of your side of the story. It's important not to treat your child as the enemy, even if you're upset with them. Hug your child and speak lovingly even as you're explaining that we can't always get our way. Kids need structure in order to feel safe and in control of their lives. If they're never sure what will happen if they behave a certain way, they'll start acting out. Use "time out" or "quiet time" each time your child throws a tantrum. They will soon learn that screaming and kicking aren't as effective as talking things through. If you don't feel comfortable putting your child in a different room or spot, you can still facilitate a time out of sorts by shifting your attention elsewhere. When your child throws a tantrum, tell them you're going to write about it. Take out a journal and write down what happened and how you feel. Ask your child to tell you how they feel so you can write that down, too. Your child will want to be involved in what you're doing, and will soon forget to scream and cry.

What is a summary?
Use time out during a meltdown. Tell your child it's "time out" or "quiet time". Place them in a safe spot. Explain to the child that you will talk to them when they calm down. Have a talk when it's time. Be consistent. Try the journaling time out trick.