A nurse is assessing a 2-year-old child at a well-child visit.
The child’s parent expresses concern about the child’s increasing temper tantrums and difficult behaviors. Which of the following statements should the nurse respond with?

The correct answer is Choice C.

Choice A rationale

While discipline is an important aspect of parenting, the nurse’s response should focus on normalizing the child’s behavior and providing reassurance to the parent. Discussing discipline methods may not address the parent’s immediate concern about temper tantrums.

Choice B rationale

Suggesting that some children have more difficult personalities and recommending parenting books may not provide the immediate reassurance and understanding the parent needs. It is important to normalize the child’s behavior and explain that temper tantrums are a normal part of development.

Choice C rationale

Toddlers are beginning to develop a sense of autonomy and independence, which can lead to temper tantrums as they assert their desires and preferences. Explaining that temper tantrums are normal during this stage of development helps reassure the parent and provides a better understanding of their child’s behavior.

Choice D rationale

While diet can play a role in behavior, the nurse’s response should focus on normalizing the child’s behavior and providing reassurance. Discussing diet may not address the parent’s immediate concern about temper tantrums and difficult behaviors.