Is 18 months too young for the naughty step?

[scrummymummy3]

My 18 month old throws the most massive tantrums at the drop of a hat when she doesn't get her own way, I know I have to nip these in the bud before they get completely out of hand, is she too young to go on the 'naughty step' or does any one have any other suggestions or advice on how to deal with massive tantrums like these from their own experiences.

if my ds needs to calm down I give him a hug.

How soft is that?

carolina I think you have an easy ride, If i hugged my dt in full tantrum I would get seriously mauled!

yes!

I know quite a few people who have started naughty step/corner/porch(!!!) between 18mths and 22mths with a lot of success, but it has been for actions not emotions. Think that is the crucial difference as quite a few others have already said.

I think Alicerose has some good points. I too have a n 18 month daughter who has regular massive tantrums. They tend to happen when she is really frustrated and especially when she is tired/hungry. She has always eaten and slept well so we try to head them off by regular meals bed/naptimes but they still happen. I try to acknowledge her feelings e.g ' i know you want to go outside but you can't at the moment' and then let her have her tantrum. She tends to throw herself backwards so i try to lie her down so she doesn't hurt herself. If i try to hold her or move her she is more likely to hit out so if it is safe to leave her where she is then i do. it gets quite a few looks when we are outside but as long as i stay calm and appear to be in control, then it looks as if i know what i am doing so i don't feel embarrassed. She also tends to hit and bite objects that she is frustrated with but this does extend to people sometimes too but obviously can't igonore this so have had to come up with other strategies for this side of things.

I agree with twig. 18 months optimum age for naughty step. They both went on it at this age.