We talked about tempering toddler tantrums earlier and while you will learn very quickly what works with your little one, here are a few other tips for taming some of the behavior your toddler may exhibit. It’s important to remember, even when you are verging on ripping your own hair out, that toddlers do not necessarily know right from wrong. That’s what we are teaching them.
So with that in mind, here are some toddler tips for taming them and teaching them at the same time:
- Scribbles – Your toddler loves to draw, on paper, on furniture, on their toys, on themselves and even on the walls. You have to remind them, frequently that we do not draw on anything except paper and then direct them to the paper. Keep supplies like this out of reach except for when you set them up to draw; remember it’s your job to provide the distraction and instruction
- No Time Outs – A time out only works when your child can understand what the time out is for. Before the age 2, few toddlers are going to even begin what that concept is. So if they are in the midst of a meltdown, throwing things, beating their fists on the floor or flailing, pick them up and sit them down in your lap, holding them securely but not too tightly and let them scream it out. They will calm down soon enough and while you are not putting them in a time out, you are removing them from harming themselves
- Give them Control – Your toddler is learning about the world around them and exerting their own influence over it. They crave their own sense of control and self-determination – let him or her decide what to wear from choices you give them and what to eat from the healthy options you’ve already determined – this gives them a sense of control
- Reward good behavior – Emphasize positive reinforcement, when you see them being good or making good choices, a hug and words of praise would not be remiss
- Overload on the hugs and kisses – Remember, your child still needs and craves a lot of affection – be sure to be demonstrable so he or she knows that they are very loved. It’s important to do this after a discipline and most other times during the day just to remind them that yes, they are loved
What other toddler tips can you think of to help temper their behavior and teach them at the same time?
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