Temper tantrums

I have a 19 month old son that's always been a "daddy's boy".  Well, my boyfriend had to go away for a few months.  Ever since he's been gone, our son throws horrible temper tantrums constantly, usually over nothing.  He will scream so loud, his whole body shakes.  I've tried everything from time-out, to ignoring him, putting him in his bed, giving him what he wants, and spanking.  Nothing works, it will last up to an hour until he just finally decides to stop.  It is totally stressing me out, any suggestions?

[maya2027]

He is obviously acting out b/c he is insecure about his dad leaving, right?  have you tried just holding him during these tantrums and telling him that you are there for him and that dad will be back very soon??  It sounds like he may just need reassurance.  Maybe discipline is the wrong thing right now b/c it's over insecurity issues, not rebellious tendencies.  Does the dad call and talk to him?  That may help also.

[margypops]

How about Distraction, when he is going to throw a tantrum take his mind away from it and put on loud Music ,sing, Dance, get him directing that energy into positive ways, He is possibly bored, maybe your friend played Games with him more than you so fill that void and get busy having Fun with your Son, you will enjoy it. Take him out to the playground to see other kids at play , more activities he will enjoy and you" have him eating out of your hand .