Navigating Mom Guilt and Toddler Tantrums: When You Lose Your Cool

Not medical advice. For emergencies, call your local emergency number.

It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed and lose your temper, especially with a new baby in the house and a toddler who’s adjusting. The feeling of guilt after yelling at your 3-year-old is a sign of your deep care and love for him. Many parents experience similar moments. What’s most important is how you recover from these situations. Apologizing to your son and explaining (in simple terms) that you were upset because of the situation, not because you don’t love him, can go a long way. Focus on reconnecting with him and reassuring him of your love. Remember, showing your child that you can acknowledge mistakes and apologize is a valuable life lesson in itself. You are not a terrible mom; you are a human mom navigating a challenging phase.

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