AboutHolly Cihla Expertise I am a mother of two girls, ages 2 years and 8 years. I have worked with children of varying abilities and ages for over sixteen years and am currently teaching junior high special education. I can answer questions on infant feedings, sleeping habits, play, developmental milestones and behavior and issues with school age children that include school, learning, behavior and home issues. I can also help you with wheat and gluten allergy diets as my youngest has a wheat allergy.
I CANNOT answer medical diagnosis questions, or things of that nature. If it is a medical issue, or you are just not sure, I always suggest checking in with a pediatrician.
Experience Experience in the area: I am a mother of a 2 year old daughter and an 8 year old daughter. I have worked with children of all ages for the last sixteen years in various forms. I have worked in the day care setting, as a nanny, at summer camps, and as a liason for families with children that have neuromuscular disease. I am currently a special education teacher that specializes in learning disabilities and minor behavior disorders. Organizations: I am a member of Kappa Delta Pi. I volunteer with the Children's Miracle Network and Children's Hospital. Education/Credentials: I have a bachelor's degree in special education and have been trained in the PBIS Behavior Method (Positive Behavior Intervention Strategies).
Expert: Holly Cihla Date: 7/7/2008 Subject: should I take her for professional help!?
Question I am a SHM. I have the same spacing as you had stated in your profile. I have a nine year old son and 2 1/2 year old daughter. My Briannes is full of drama though. There is no in between. Grandmas, pa's, aunties and others suggest letting her pitch her fit. But it is truly unbearable. She screams in agony for either dad or myself. If we do not relieve her of her explained 'bad behavior' alone time she will yells. It is ear piercing, and she can do it until she looses enough oxygen that her face blemishes in a 'fit rash'. Her brother is getting the blunt of it. As she adores and despises her big brother. He is sweet. We truly do all we can do and all the 'generic and obvious' techniques. I believe our situation is unique. She is in good health and has recently been seen for her well baby check up by her pediatrician. Any other advice would be greatly appreciated. This is taking a toll on our marriage and relations with her big brother. Thanks so much.
Answer Denise-
thank you for your question. I understand your frustration! My oldest can throw some wild tantrums and bring down the house. We've dealt with screaming, throwing things, kicking, door slamming and toy breaking. When she starts, it's off to her room until she's calm. I do the same with my youngest, the two year old.
I agree with the relatives to let her throw the fit. When you give in to her tantrums, you basically tell her her behavior is acceptable. I totally understand when you say it's unbearable and hard to listen to. That's when you shut the door, or leave the room and let her have it out. I would tell her that when she's done with her fit she may come back out. You weren't real specific when you said that your oldest takes the brunt so I'm not real sure what you meant. Feel free to write back and go into more detail if you wish.
If you still feel uncomfortable with this method, please check back in with your doctor. Explain that you would like some advice and then describe, in detail, the problem to the doctor. He or she might be able to give you some better suggestions. I apologize, but I'm old school when it comes to this.
I am sorry if I wasn't more help. Please feel free to write back or contact another volunteer if you need further help. I wish you all luck.
