Cheng says there's no single best method for dealing with tantrums, because so much depends on the situation and the age of the child. 'What's important is to try to minimise situations that can trigger these tantrums,' he says.

'I tell parents to try to remember the acronym Aid: Avoid what can be avoided; Ignore what can be ignored; Distract what can be distracted.'

He says parents shouldn't reason or argue with the child (out of control toddlers are beyond reason), should avoid language or behaviour that's abusive or detrimental to his/her self esteem, and at other times reinforce positive behaviour as much as possible.

Experts say the golden rule is to avoid acceding to the demands made during a tantrum. Otherwise, the toddler quickly learns that having a tantrum is the best method of getting their way.

And although it's difficult, parents should try to stay calm, speak softly, and express empathy with words such as: 'I know it's hard when you don't get what you want. Sometimes I get angry when I can't get what I want.' Such tactics aren't easy for parents when their own emotions are ricocheting between helplessness and anger - or even fear.

Tantrums are most common in children from as young as one up to about four - and can occur at least once a day. This makes it hard to define what's excessive, says Cheng.

And although virtually every toddler has a tantrum at some point, some are more prone. 'But if you're concerned, look at whether there are other underlying issues,' he says. 'Does the child have developmental problems? Or is there trouble at home?'

But if your child is having tantrums more than twice a day, if these continue on a regular basis past the age of four, or if they seem to be accompanied by feelings of intense anger, sadness, helplessness, aggression, violence or other behavioural problems (such as sleep disorders or food refusal), then check with your doctor.