Toddler Behavior - What to do instead of distraction

I find that use of distraction with toddlers can lead to more frustration and tantrums overall.

We distract kids from showing emotion, usually what we define as a bad emotion, to make ourselves feel better. To save time, to alleviate a situation in public that can be embarrassing. What we are really doing is teaching kids to shut down their feelings and their needs, and pretend to be happy. While I truly believe that each parent has to do what is best for them in each situation, this conversation is looking at the bigger picture of the coping techniques we use with children.