Remind the child of the classroom rules if you sense a tantrum is coming on. A child who is pouting or refusing to follow directions may be working up to a tantrum. Say, "I can see that you're angry that play time is over, but you must listen to teachers when we say to clean up."
Ignore the child's behavior once the tantrum begins. When children throw tantrums, they may be trying to get your attention. Begging them to stop or making empty threats will only motivate them to keep acting out so they can keep your attention.
Take the child to a quiet corner or out of the room if she doesn't calm down after a minute, or if she seems to be a danger to herself or others. Bring a pillow or blanket with you so she can be comfortable.
Explain to the child that you'll talk to him when he's calm. Sit quietly next to him until he's quiet and his body is still. This teaches him that he'll only get the attention he wants when he's making appropriate choices.
Talk to the child about what's making her feel upset. She may just be tired and cranky, but she may also be angry about a rule she doesn't like or have some issue at home that's upsetting her. If the problem is that she doesn't want to follow the rules, explain why the classroom rules are in place and why she must follow them.
Give the child a hug and smile and lead him back to the other children. Help him settle into the activity the other children are working on. Periodically go over to him and praise him for following the rules. He'll want to keep making appropriate choices so he can keep getting positive attention.