Parenting
By Alex Morgan
Updated: Aug. 22, 2015
Originally Published: Aug. 11, 2014
Ah, babies. They eat, sleep, giggle, and yes, they cry too. Life seems simple with these little bundles of joy—until they start growing up. Before you know it, your immobile infant has transformed into a spirited toddler who’s ready to take on the world (or at least your living room). Brace yourself; this new stage will put your patience to the ultimate test. Here are six tips to help you transition smoothly:
- Tame the Hangry Beast
Toddlers are food machines. If you thought you were cranky when hungry, just wait until your little one morphs from a sweet little angel into a tornado of rage because they haven’t been fed. Stock your pantry and keep snacks handy to avoid the impending meltdown. - Master Simple Cooking
Your pantry is your friend for quick snacks to quiet a fussing child, but you’ll need some easy recipes to keep your toddler’s diet varied. Grilling is a hit at my house—chicken, turkey, and pork are winners, but veggies? They’re a slow work in progress. Breakfast can be a breeze with a quick scramble of eggs and turkey. Don’t fret about the kitchen; you got this! Just avoid burning yourself. - Never Sink Deep into the Couch Again
Forget about lounging comfortably—at least until bedtime. With a toddler, you’ll want to sit on the edge, prepared to spring into action at a moment’s notice to rescue whatever potentially dangerous item they’ve unearthed. Get ready for some athletic parenting! - Hide Everything
Seriously, everything. Phone chargers, remote controls, coasters—if it’s within reach, it’s fair game. Store things high up or tuck them away in cabinets. Trust me, you won’t have time to read those magazines anyway! - Designate Play Zones
Having a specific area for toys can save you from a house that looks like a disaster zone at a moment’s notice. While it may not always work out, confining the chaos makes cleaning up easier—especially when surprise guests arrive. - Create Lines of Sight
It’s time to elevate your dad skills. Position yourself strategically in the room so you can keep an eye on your toddler while making minimal movements. Remember, the broader your view, the less you have to move around! - Consider a Gas Mask
I’m only half-joking here. Changing a toddler’s diaper can be a truly horrifying experience—like entering a horror movie set in a festival restroom during the summer. I’ve taken to covering my nose with my shirt; it’s a small price to pay for sanity. - Become a Distraction Wizard
Toddlers have an uncanny ability to get into trouble, and their attention spans are shorter than a goldfish’s. The art of distraction has become my secret weapon. Making silly faces or waving their favorite toy around often makes me look ridiculous, but hey, it works! - Get Acquainted with Kid Movies
If you’re in the mood for a movie, prepare for a journey through the world of kid flicks. Forget action movies or sports; you’ll be watching Frozen or The Lion King on repeat until bedtime. Adult entertainment? You might have to wait until after 9 p.m. - Find Your Decompression Strategies
Parenting is a full-time gig, and you need your own downtime to recharge. Whether it’s hitting the gym, taking a walk, or indulging in a tub of ice cream (no judgment here!), prioritize your mental and physical well-being.
And there you have it—a not-so-comprehensive guide to surviving the toddler years. Expect messes, chaos, and plenty of learning along the way. Embrace this wild ride with confidence.
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