5 year old tantrums

[namechange12524]

DS is 5, just started year 1. He still has tantrums most days. Is this normal? When does it get better?

It usually occurs when he's tired or hungry and often starts with us asking him to do something such as get dressed or go out. He'll refuse, then sulk, and eventually tantrum, by which I mean screaming, crying, occasionally lashing out physically and saying he hates us/wants to live on his own. He gets himself in a terrible state. This only ever happens at home/with me or DH; teachers describe him as well behaved, calm and quiet.

How can I help him regulate his emotions better? Should I be concerned that we've seemingly been going through the 'terrible twos' for three years?! It's so exhausting for all of us, especially him, poor thing.

Normal I'd say, my 6yo is still prone to a good old huff. With extra drama thrown on top now!

Deep breaths, deep breaths...

If it mainly happens when he's tired or hungry look at his routine to see if you can avoid this as much as possible. Help him to start seeing the signs of this for himself so that he can take steps (with your help) to prevent a meltdown.

My second dd is also 5 in year 1 (6 in a few months) and yes we are still having daily tantrums. She's a sensitive soul but also very strong willed and assertive. She's lovely but hard to parent at times and the tantrums are very wearing. My first daughter barely tantrums at all.

I'm just riding it out, remaining firm and hoping it doesn't last much longer and this is the right thing to do.

I think we are having more tantrums since starting year 1 but I'm thinking it's tiredness, getting back into routine and adapting to the new boundaries and rules of no longer being in reception. She is more tearful too.

You saying poor thing tells Me a lot actually. Why don't you toughen up and tell him to behave himself. No it's not normal at 5 yrs old atall it's bad behaviour.

Thank you all, an interesting range of advice!

@17caterpillars1mouse this is it exactly - sensitive and strong willed, you could be describing my son!