How can I calm a tantrum in a younger child during lessons? 

Parenting Perspective 

Understanding the Tantrum 

Tantrums are perfectly normal in young children, and they often appear during learning time when little ones lose patience or find something too difficult. Remind yourself that tantrums are usually a child’s way of asking for help when they do not yet have the words to express big emotions. Try not to see them simply as bad behaviour. 

Staying Calm and Offering Comfort 

The first step is to stay calm, as your composure acts like an anchor for your child. Speak in a softer tone and come down to their eye level. Acknowledge what they are feeling by saying something like, ‘I see you are very upset right now.’ Avoid criticising or rushing to correct them in the moment. Offer a small comfort such as their favourite toy, a cuddle, or a sip of water. 

Pausing the Lesson and Teaching Alternatives 

When possible, pause the lesson and give them a few minutes to settle through a calming activity like reading a story or playing with dough. Once they are calmer, explain gently that their feelings are always valid, but behaviours like shouting or throwing things are not okay. Keep realistic expectations for what your child can manage at this age and praise them when they try to use words instead of tears next time. 

Over time, your steady support teaches your child that big feelings are safe to share and can be managed with patience, love, and trust. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam reminds us that raising children with mercy and patience is an act of worship, and these moments are tests of Sabr for parents, too. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqan (25), Verse 74: 

‘And those who say, Our Lord, grant us from among our wives and offspring comfort to our eyes and make us an example for the righteous. ‘

This Ayah is a beautiful Dua for children to be a source of joy and calm, not stress. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 867a, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ never scolded harshly but showed gentleness with children, even when they made mistakes. Share simple reminders with your child: ‘When we feel angry or sad, we can ask Allah Almighty to help our hearts feel better.’ Teach them a small Dua: O Allah, make my heart calm and help me be patient. Model this by making your own Dua silently during tense moments, your child will learn by watching you. Remember, the goal is not to avoid all tantrums forever but to guide your child towards understanding and self-control. Over time, these small, loving steps help your child see that feelings are part of being human, but managing them with patience, trust, and Tawakkul in Allah Almighty brings peace into the home and heart, InshaAllah.