Terrible Twos
Toddlers, Parenting, Disciplining Children, Bad Behavior
Two-Year-Olds Might Be Thinking:
- I am frustrated, because I cannot express what I really want.
- I do not know to express my feelings verbally, so maybe I should bite someone to show them I am not happy.
- I feel like crying, because I am not getting what I want.
- I am hungry, but I don't know how to tell them what I want to eat.
- I'm so sleepy, but I don't know how to settle.
- I want to do what everyone else is doing, but I can't because I am not tall enough to join the conversation.
- I want to eat what everyone else is eating, but no one will let me.
- I want to drink what everyone is drinking, but they keep moving the cup.
- I wonder what will happen if I throw this ball across the room?
- People are laughing when I throw things. Maybe I should keep doing it.
Words That Might Be Encouraging for Parents:
- Every child is unique. Just keep trying until you find the right approach for you.
- Just make sure they stay safe during the terrible twos period. They all grow out of it eventually.
- Try to keep your child's nap time schedule consistent to keep moods calm.
- This is just a phase. Stay calm. This too shall pass.
- Feed your kiddos when they are hungry... they will let you know.
- Don't give in to a screaming child. Keeping your cool is the best approach.
- Come up with new fun games to play when behavior becomes disruptive. Distract.
- Be consistent and calm when your toddler begins to act up.
- Tell your toddlers "no," and provide an explanation as to why they cannot participate in inappropriate activities.
Words That Might Be Discouraging for Parents:
- You are not doing it right.
- This is how I did it, and it worked great.
- I am not sure what you are doing wrong, but your kid cries a lot.
- Can't you get that kid to shut up?
- Does your kid always act this way?
- You just have to figure it out.
- You were the same way when you were growing up.
- You have to get the kid on a set schedule.
- If your kids are not doing what you ask, you should spank them.
- They say all kids go through the terrible twos, but mine never did. Just lucky, I guess.
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