Redirection isn't just a strategy—it's a superpower.
As adults, when we've had an exhausting day, we shift our focus to something relaxing. By doing so, we redirect our negative energy to a positive activity.
It's the same with children: if they are in a negative situation and are having a meltdown, simply redirecting them will help them shift their attention to a positive experience.
When your little one is in the middle of a meltdown they are not ready to listen nor will understand what you are trying to tell them in that heated moment. Getting their attention to something more interesting will channel the negative situation to the positive one. Introduce another activity or remove them from the situation. By doing so, you are not rewarding the negative behavior but shifting their attention to something else. For example, offer another fun toy/object/activity that will surely grab their attention and even act a little silly or animated. This will stop the tantrum and they will be interested in the new activity.
Next time your little one is having a meltdown, try redirecting. Learning to channel our negative emotions into positive ones by shifting our focus is a great skill in life for everyone.
Speech-Language Pathologist • Playdate Speech Therapy