At what age are temper tantrums most common?

Temper tantrums are most commonly observed in children aged 2 to 3 years. This period is characterized by significant developmental changes, specifically in emotional and social growth. During this age, children are beginning to assert their independence while still lacking the verbal skills to effectively communicate their needs and frustrations. Consequently, they may resort to tantrums as a way to express those emotions.

At this developmental stage, children experience heightened emotions and are often overwhelmed by the inability to cope with their feelings or the limitations set by parents and caregivers. The frequency of tantrums tends to peak around the age of 2 to 3 years, driven by the child's desire for autonomy and the natural testing of boundaries as they explore their environment.

After this phase, as children grow older and develop better communication skills and emotional regulation, tantrums typically become less frequent. Understanding this pattern helps caregivers anticipate and manage these behaviors effectively during this critical developmental stage.