Final answer:
Handling toddler temper tantrums involves more than expressing disapproval and ignoring; using time-out as a form of negative punishment and following correct implementation is essential.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the best way for a parent to handle a temper tantrum by a toddler is to calmly express disapproval and then ignore it may not fully capture the complexity of handling such situations. According to principles of behavior modification, using a technique like time-out could be more effective. During a time-out, when a child exhibits undesirable behavior, they are removed from a pleasant activity for a brief period.
The removal from the desired activity serves as a form of negative punishment, intending to reduce the probability of the unwanted behavior reoccurring. It's important to implement time-out correctly by ensuring the child is removed from a desirable situation, using a time limit based on the child's age, and maintaining a calm demeanor without reinforcing the misbehavior with attention. After the time-out, offering a hug or kind words can reaffirm the caregiver's support.