Temper tantrums are a preschool student's method of expressing frustration. Young children are quickly becoming independent and strive to complete tasks that may be outside the child's physical or mental capabilities. An inability to do things for herself causes a child to become frustrated and demonstrate a temper tantrum. Another source of temper tantrums stems from an inability to communicate effectively. This type of tantrum is often seen in boys since the male language skills develop after the female's. As the child fails an attempted task or experiences a negative peer interaction, he becomes frustrated over feelings he cannot express, and he resorts to a temper tantrum. Tantrums are a normal part of young child behavior.
Preschool aggression is noted more in boys than in girls, again due to the developmental difference in language skills. Aggression includes striking others, fighting over toys or shouting at peers. According to Dr. Susan Campbell, author of "Behavior Problems in Preschool," 95 percent of aggression is not a cause for concern. Aggression gathers concern when behaviors escalate, occurs over a long period of time, or accompanies other concerning behaviors.
Preschoolers thrive on routine and will change behavior if routines are disrupted. If a daily schedule is followed, the children learn what to expect in sequence. Changes or disruptions to the daily routine will result in changes in the students' behavior. Children will become unsettled and lose their sense of security with changes in routine, as a young child's security depends on knowing what is going to happen next.
Preschoolers have the community sense to work in supervised groups. According to "Early Education: Three, Four, and Five Year Olds Go to School," the younger the children, the smaller the group, is a good rule of thumb. Breaking children into learning groups demonstrates different learning experiences and teaches behavior within peer groups. Preschool behavior in small group settings changes from a whole class setting as children have more opportunity to participate in the project as individuals.