Parenting is never easy.
Between trying to handle your toddler’s tantrums to trying to get them to sleep, you have your work cut out for you.
Their ‘terrible twos’ refers to that tumultuous period where they are too young to scold yet old enough to wreak havoc.
But do not give up hope yet, there are ways to get them under control.
Here’s how.
Set Boundaries
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Your toddler is most comfortable at home. Their whole lives revolve around their parents who care of them.
So naturally, they have no inhibitions. This might bring about some bad behaviour.
We tend to act out when we are around the people we feel at ease at, and toddlers have lots of antics up their sleeves.
They may be the apple of your eye but you have to be firm with them when they start to act up.
Identify the boundaries you want to set and shut down any truly bad behaviour when you notice it.
You don’t need to scold them, just make sure that what they are doing should not be repeated.
It may be hard for you to get them to listen but they will eventually learn how to control their behaviour.
Treat Them with Respect
Toddlers are just as perceptive to how you treat them as any adult.
They may not have the words or thought process to lay it all out but they are aware of how they are being treated.
Treating them with respect does not mean you have to be a pushover, however.
As long as you do not berate them unnecessarily or make them upset, you are on the right path.
Some adults might sometimes belittle children and talk down to them.
But instead of dismissing whatever they say, try listening to them and acknowledging their interests.
Give Them Options
Even the most stubborn kids can be dealt with in one way or another.
In fact, it is often easier to work with instead of against children.
Disciplining your kids isn’t about getting the last word, it is about making sure they do what is right.
And if neither of your moods are ruined in the process, all the better.
It may not seem like much, but allowing them to make their own decisions within your approval will give them a sense of satisfaction and spare you the headache of a tantrum.
Avoid Being Too Strict
No one likes a tyrant, least of all children. Being too strict may eventually backfire on you.
People sometimes say that the difference between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ kids is that the good ones know how to lie to their parents.
If you are constantly on your toddler’s back about every minor thing they do, they may eventually come to resent you as they get older.
A toddler who is made uncomfortable in their own home may keep that fearful feeling with them as they grow up.
You may think that a few harsh words will set them straight but it is always better to be kind.
Keep in mind: What may seem like a passing comment to you may end up defining your toddler’s childhood.
Be Aware
Toddlers aren’t the best at communicating what they want. Even those that can talk don’t always have the vocabulary they need.
Try to pick up on their body language and reactions as you might get an insight to what they are feeling.
If they are already cranky, you could lay off on the nagging for a while.
It may seem unnecessary to acquiesce to a toddler’s whims but being aware of their mood and character can give you the upper hand in handling them.
It is much easier to handle a happy child than an irritated one.
And at the end of the day, the goal is for everyone to be content, is it not?
Set A Schedule
Routines bring balance into your toddler’s life.
They may protest at first but having scheduled meals, bedtimes and playtimes will give them a sense of purpose and structure.
A schedule can help you handle your toddler’s outbursts.
When there are a set of rules that clearly state what has to be done when, they are more likely to comply.
Involve your toddler in setting up this routine.
Of course, you still have the final say. But allowing them to have a say in some small decisions will show that you are being fair.
Last Resorts
Your toddler’s terrible twos may feel unbearable so far but try implementing these simple change sand see where that gets you.
They may be stubborn but you can play it smart and get them to work with you.
You may be finding it hard to handle your toddler’s antics. But just remember that there is always a way out of a tough patch. You’ve got this, parents!
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