Temper Tantrums

My 20 month old son has been experiencing temper tantrums for about 5 months, but they are getting progressively worse.  He now has between 4 - 8 tantrums a day, where he needs to be removed from an sensory activities and calmed down.  I understand that temper tantrums are normal for his age, but these seem extreme.  Often these tantrums don't seem to be caused by a particular incident.  He's in daycare, and I don't see or hear about the other children having such problems.  

I've also been told that it's more difficult for him to transition from one activity to another like the other kids in his class.

Should I be concerned about a possible behavioural problem, or just stick it out and hope things get better as he gets older?

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Ms. Ferrick,

To some extent, tantrums are the order of the day for a child of nearly two years. Not that all 20-month-olds display them, but it's not unusual, either.

The important thing is how to manage them. When they are non-destructive in nature (i.e., he is simply fussing and making noise), they're best ignored. If they are destructive in nature (i.e., he is hurting himself, hurting others, or throwing things), he'll need to be restrained from doing so.

Children so young do not manage frustration very well. They don't yet have the impulse control or the ability to manage anger that they will later develop.

[Hans]

My son is too delicate. At what age will he start acting like other boys?

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Hans,

I can't respond to your concern without more information. If you will add more details I can try to be helpful