How do you deal with your 'artistic temperament' child?

[tortoiseSHELL]

Just wondered how those of you with 'artistic' children (read very stroppy!) manage them? Ds1 in particular, but also dd both show this - ds1 especially is very creative - musically, drawing, imaginative, wants to be 'an actor darling' and is very good at acting, loves nothing better! Along with that though he has a classic 'artistic temperament' - everything is high drama, either fantastically amazing or the end of the world, accompanied by appropriate dramatic statements/gestures (flinging on floor, weeping copiously...).

What's the best way to manage this? Dd is similar, though possibly not so creative, she certainly has the same meltdowns. Ds1 is 6, dd 4 (here's hoping ds2 is a nice level scientist!).

Thanks in advance!

x-post, ignore first bit

Why don't you try reading "Raising Your Spirited Child Rev Ed: A Guide for Parents Whose Child Is More Intense, Sensitive, Perceptive, Persistent, and Energetic"? I cannot recommend this book highly enough. In fact, I'm currently re-reading it. Have found it very helpful in dealing with ds1.

jabberwocky, thanks I will!

Elibean - you're right, some of it is age-related, some of it isn't! That's a good idea as well, to reduce it to factual content, rather than the 'queeniness' factor!