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We all know how draining and irritating a whining child can be, especially in a day care environment where a chorus of multiple whiners can seriously challenge your sanity. A full blown, short lived tantrum is way preferable to the constant, ongoing, nerve grating torture that is a whiny child. Fear not, it is possible to deal with the offending whinester and restore some semblance of peace and tranquillity.

Hunger, tiredness, boredom and feeling unwell are factors that can precipitate whining sessions. Attempting to identify if any of these are the triggers can help minimize the whinefest. Unfortunately, whining is a very unattractive trait that, if left to it’s own devices, can become a method of communicating which may last for many years. Though there is no sure fire way of curing whining there are methods you can use to help prevent outbreaks.

Oftentimes a child can begin the whine process as a final, desperate attempt to attract attention. They are demanding adult recognition via this annoying method as a last resort. This is your chance to ‘lend your ear’. Listening to what kids are trying to say can often head off the irritating behavior. So, no matter how busy you are stop what you are doing, get down to their level and acknowledge the child. If necessary, spend some one on one time helping with a puzzle or reading a story. Sometimes simply paying constructive attention to these little individuals can lead to peaceful times.

Children need to learn the difference between various tones of voice and discovering how whining sounds is no different. They need to be taught that people don’t like, and won’t listen to a whiny voice because it is not pleasant. Help them to understand the negative effect of that sound by involving them in role play or tape recording the whiny voice versus the normal voice. Allowing a child to hear himself may help him grasp the idea that whining isn’t so hot. Remember to praise the use of a normal voice when appropriate.

A child will whine when she is unable to express herself. Instead of reprimanding a child in these instances try to help her verbalize her feelings or needs. Help her with the verbage so she is encouraged to tell you what is wrong. The child will have less reason to whine when she has the opportunity to discuss her feelings and needs. The realisation that talking about her issues is more productive than whining will result from your positive attention.

Distraction is a great tool when a child is whining. The whines can be silenced by completely switching the subject and animatedly indicating something fun. ‘Did you see that squirrel out there?’ A bored child is a whiney child so recognise the signs of a kid on the road to boredom city. Anticipate tedium and introduce a fun and absorbing activity. The whining option won’t be considered when a child is busy.

A child seeking recognition recognises any attention as a success so don’t do negative attention. Avoid yelling. Never label a child a whiner - this is not a standard or expectation you want to set for them. Finally, remain calm and NEVER give in to whining. Though you may be gnashing your teeth stick to your guns. Giving in after 20 minutes of incessant whining sends a message to the child that persisting with this behavior pays off. The child will learn that you respond positively only to a normal voice. It’s tough but stay the course and you could have a positively serene enviornment.

Want to know about childcare? Fiona Lohrenz, day care operator for a decade, provides you with lots of information on her website. Plus, check out her ‘Start a ChildCare Business’ DVD Guide: Start A Day Care Business DVD You can find her at: ChildCareOnly.com

- Rene Sandan