My daughter is two. She’s two-and-a-half really. And yes, that’s different than just being two. When she was two she was busy. She was a daredevil. She did new things each day. But now that she’s two-and-a-half, a whole new world has opened up. And suddenly, emotions are pouring out of her like the Hoover Dam.
I thought for a while that my daughter wouldn’t be quite as sensitive as my son. He has always been more sensitive than most. But lately, if my voice rises slightly above normal, it’s enough to send her into an all out meltdown on the floor, in the store, or anywhere for that matter. And with the meltdowns has come attitude.
Oh yes, two-year-olds can be stubborn, sometimes embarrassingly so. Has your child ever dropped in the middle of a store and refused to get up? Mine did about a month ago. I was mortified. And lest you think I’m a lax mom, let me tell you that I’m not. My kids have been taught to listen. I’m consistent as much as humanly possible, and I don’t let them get away with things. Still, a two-year-old can strike without warning.
Yes, amidst her highflying ponytails and princess-like demeanor, there lies a dangerous little creature, choc full of new words and emotions; capable of spilling out when I least expect it. So how do I handle the “terrible two’s?” How can you? It’s a one-day at a time thing. Try to be patient but be firm. Set boundaries and adhere to some sense of order each day. Kids need structure. If you provide it, you’ll have far fewer meltdowns than if you don’t. Other than that, just keep plugging along. Parenting is a learn as you go kind of gig. If it came with a manual I’d be the first in line to buy it. But since it doesn’t, I just do the best I can, hug my children often, and never, ever forget the healing powers of a chocolate bar when I’m having a particularly rough day.