Toddler Tantrums & Public Meltdowns

It started with a granola bar.

We were at the grocery store, and my toddler spotted a snack he wanted. I calmly said no. He calmly responded by throwing himself on the floor and screaming like his world had just ended.

People stared.

I could feel my face turning red. I tried reasoning with him. I tried distraction. I tried bribing (yes, I went there). Nothing worked.

He just kept screaming. And suddenly, I wanted to cry too.

And then, a kind older woman walked past, smiled at me, and said, “You’re doing great.”

Just like that, my embarrassment melted. Because the truth is, tantrums aren’t a sign of bad parenting. They’re just part of being a toddler.

So to the parent dealing with a meltdown—breathe. You’re not alone. And I promise, this phase will pass.