For parents, public tantrums are more than just background noise.
They’re an intense wave of stress, embarrassment, and helplessness.
It’s not just about calming a child; it’s about staying calm yourself when you know everyone’s watching.
Just recently, a viral TikTok clip showed a couple recording their reaction to a screaming child in public.
They laughed, suggesting the child needed sleeping pills. It was meant as a joke.
But for many mums and dads, it hit hard.
Because the truth is, no one wants their child to scream in public.
Not the mum juggling shopping bags and a toddler.
Not the dad pacing the aisle trying to soothe a crying baby.
And definitely not the parents who’ve already tried every trick in the book to prevent a meltdown.
It’s Not Defiance, It’s Development
Tantrums aren’t signs of bad parenting; they’re part of growing up.
Multiple research studies show temper tantrums are incredibly common among children aged 18 months to 4 years.
They stem from frustration, exhaustion, hunger, or just an inability to process big feelings.
These outbursts are a child’s way of saying: ‘I’m overwhelmed, and I don’t know what to do.’
They’re still learning how to manage their emotions, and sometimes, it spills over, especially in stimulating places like malls or restaurants.
The Pressure to ‘Control’
What many don’t realise is how much pressure parents may feel in these moments.
The stares, the sighs, the unspoken assumption that a screaming child is a reflection of poor discipline—it all adds up.
And then come the comments.
‘Why can’t they just keep the kid quiet?’
‘Can’t they do something about that noise?’
‘Maybe they shouldn’t bring kids out at all.’
But here’s the thing: kids are part of the society too, and no parent needs a lecture when they’re in survival mode.
What helps isn’t side-eyes or sarcastic remarks; it’s empathy and not suggesting medication to ‘fix’ a child expressing emotion.
What Parents Really Need in Tough Moments
If your child’s ever screamed in public and you’ve had to carry on with everyone watching, you’re not alone.
If you’ve had to leave half-full trolleys behind or step out of restaurants mid-meal to soothe your little one, you’ve done what’s best.
You’re not failing; you’re parenting, which is a lot of work.
To the others, let’s all remember to be kinder the next time we hear a child cry or see a parent struggling.
It might be inconvenient or loud. But it’s also a moment that deserves a little more grace.
Because someday, that child will grow. And the tantrums will stop.
But what won’t be forgotten is how they and their parents were treated during the hardest parts.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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