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We all know how draining and irritating a whining child can be, especially in a day care environment where a chorus of multiple whiners can seriously challenge your sanity. A full blown, short lived tantrum is way preferable to the constant, ongoing, nerve grating torture that is a whiny child. Fear not, it is possible to deal with the offending whinester and restore some semblance of peace and tranquillity.

Many whining scenarios are precipitated by simple factors such as hunger, tiredness, boredom and feeling unwell. Attempting to identify if any of these are the triggers can help minimize the whinefest. However, sometimes whining has simply become a way of communicating for some children and, if not dealt with can continue for many years as a very unattractive trait. Though there is no sure fire way of curing whining there are methods you can use to help prevent outbreaks.

Oftentimes a child can begin the whine process as a final, desperate attempt to attract attention. They are demanding adult recognition via this annoying method as a last resort. This is your chance to 'lend your ear'. Listening to what kids are trying to say can often head off the irritating behavior. So, no matter how busy you are stop what you are doing, get down to their level and acknowledge the child. If necessary, spend some one on one time helping with a puzzle or reading a story. Sometimes simply paying constructive attention to these little individuals can lead to peaceful times.

Children need to learn the difference between various tones of voice and discovering how whining sounds is no different. They need to be taught that people don't like, and won't listen to a whiny voice because it is not pleasant. Help them to understand the negative effect of that sound by involving them in role play or tape recording the whiny voice versus the normal voice. Allowing a child to hear himself may help him grasp the idea that whining isn't so hot. Remember to praise the use of a normal voice when appropriate.

An inability to express herself will cause a child to whine. Try to recognise when this is the case and instead of reprimanding try to help the child verbalize their needs. Encourage the child to tell you what is wrong, what she needs and help her with the words. Discussing feelings and needs means the child has less reason to whine. This positive attention will help her to understand that talking about her issues is a lot more productive than whining.

Distraction is a great tool when a child is whining. Completely switching the subject and animatedly pointing out something unique and fun can stop the whines dead in their tracks. 'Did you see that squirrel out there?' Also, recognise when a kid is heading towards boredomsville...a bored child is a whiney child. Anticipate tedium and introduce a fun and absorbing activity. A busy child won't have time to contemplate whining.

A child seeking recognition recognises any attention as a success so don't do negative attention. Try not to shout. Never label a child a whiner - this is not a standard or expectation you want to set for them. Never capitulate and remain calm. Giving in after 20 minutes of incessant whining sends a message to the child that persisting with this behavior pays off. They must realise that only a normal voice elicits a positive response. It's tough but stay the course and you could have a positively serene enviornment.

Fiona Lohrenz shares her 10 years experience of running a day care on her website where you'll also find her 'Start a ChildCare Business' DVD guide: Start A Day Care Business DVD She can be reached at: ChildCareOnly.com