Struggling to stay calm

[screamer1]

With my nearly 3 year old. She's brilliant but feisty. EVERYTHING is a battle with screaming tantrums. As soon as she doesn't get exactly what she wants she melts down. She won't go to get dad and only ever wants me.

I'm generally pretty calm, but I'm struggling at the moment, any tips?

Oh no, I am at a loss of what to say, this does sound difficult. Maybe next time she asks for something before giving her a chance to melt down, try to negotiate with her? For example, if she want's chocolate before dinner: "We're going to have the BEST dinner ever now, but eat up and I'll give you chocolate after!" if she gets angry tell her you'll only give it to her if she's good.
Maybe you should set up a daddy/daughter day out just the two of them, eg to the farm! it could bond them a lot more, and you could have a relaxing day, sounds much needed! Wishing you luck OP x

Does this help?

A 3 yr old screaming until she gets her way is not feisty that's a spoiled little tyrant.

Wow, ok @Bookworm4 . Appreciate your input.

When our strong willed DT’s were that age, we started with time outs. There was one warning and then time out - one minute for their age. They very quickly understood but you have to be really consistent with following through otherwise it’s a false threat. Age 2 - 3 is tough but they do improve!

OP
All you're doing is excusing her behaviour as feisty, say no and keep saying no, she tantrums because she knows you'll give in. Do you never leave her with dad? Does she manage when you're not there? Hope she's not like this at nursery.

Stay calm and don't give in, as she'll know it works! Can you walk out the room or turn your back on her when she has a melt down? Then just think of a happy place and try to zone out (mine would be on a beach, with a sangria, being fanned by good looking, topless, silent men) x