14 October 2026Big feelings
My toddler melts down several times a day, over the wrong colour cup. Is this normal?
Very common. Tantrums usually start around 18 months and are most frequent between 2 and 3. The part of the brain that handles big feelings is years ahead of the part that calms them down, so a small disappointment can feel enormous.
Try this tonight
Stay close, keep your voice low and say less: "You really wanted the blue cup. That's hard. I'm right here." Hold the limit, skip the lecture, and talk about it later once everyone is calm.
When to check in
Talk to your GP or health visitor if tantrums are getting more intense after age 4, involve hurting themselves or others, or you're worried.
Official guidance: NHS: Temper tantrums
You're not alone.
