Among the many scary aspects of bringing up a child is to witness him or her going through a breath holding spells. Even though such a spell may last for only a minute it is enough to send many a parent into a frenzy of anxiety or panic. Here are a few ways to help you manage your child’s breath holding spells at home.

Breath holding spells generally occur when the child is frustrated, angry, tired or in pain. See that your child is getting enough rest so that there is less scope for frustration or exhaustion. Also get your toddler used to a daily routine which will have a regularizing and calming effect on the child.

Protect your child from injuries during a breath holding spell. See that the child’s head, arms and legs do not hit anything hard or sharp. Most importantly, reassure your child by touching and talking soothingly to him/her.

Finally, do not scold or punish your child for holding breath. Remember that such a spell is not voluntary on his/her part and the child will outgrow them gradually. However if you find that the spells are increasing in frequency or severity or if you find yourself unable to manage them at home, it is better to take a doctor’s opinion.