Remain positive. When your student begins a tantrum, tell him right away what you want him to do, rather than saying what you don't want him to do.
Distract the child as soon as the tantrum begins. If he is upset because somebody took the book that he wanted to read, find him a special book from a totally different part of the room. Removing him from the area and finding him an alternate book may be just what he needs to forget that he was having a tantrum.
State your expectations for behavior before every activity and lesson. Some children need a quick reminder -- frequently -- to remember what is expected of them.
Squat down or sit in a chair so that you are at eye level when a child is beginning to throw a tantrum. Without raising your voice, look the child in the eye and remind him of the behavior that you expect to see.
Move on after the tantrum is over. Do not keep discussing it and repeating how upset you are. Continue to give constant reminders so that this does not happen again.