Dec. 17, 2015
Is My Toddler Possessed, or is This Just the Start of the Terrible Twos?
You give your little one a sliced banana, and suddenly it seems like you’ve committed the ultimate betrayal; she flops to the floor in a fit, howling because she wanted the banana whole. Welcome to the “Terrible Twos,” folks!
So, why does your toddler switch from calm to chaos in the blink of an eye? Often, it’s because her desires are outstripping her ability to express them. She might prefer a whole banana but lacks the vocabulary to ask for it – hence the frustration when you present her with a sliced version. (How could you!) And how do toddlers express that frustration? By throwing tantrums, of course.
When this happens, your best bet is to remain calm and composed. Avoid making eye contact with the little tornado; acknowledging her outburst only reinforces the behavior. Give her space to express her feelings, and once she’s settled down, offer some comfort and let her know you understand her disappointment. If you find yourself in public and the meltdown strikes, it might be best to step away for a moment – perhaps into a restroom or your vehicle – and help her regain her composure privately.
Tantrums are part of the territory (hooray!), but there are ways to mitigate them. The most crucial rule? Stand your ground! Giving in to your toddler’s demands only teaches her that throwing a fit is an effective tactic. Offering choices can also help; when toddlers feel involved in decision-making, they’re less likely to protest. For example, let her pick between two shirts or choose a snack. Additionally, avoid outings when your child is tired or hungry, as that’s a recipe for disaster.
Remember, your little one is observing your every move, so how you handle your own frustrations is key. Keep your cool around her – even if that means retreating to your bedroom to let out a frustrated scream into a pillow. Trust me, we’ve all been there!
If you’re looking for more insights on navigating parenthood, check out this post on Cervical Insemination. It’s filled with helpful tips. For those considering at-home insemination, Make a Mom offers a reputable selection of syringe kits to assist you. And for a broader understanding of family building options, Resolve is an excellent resource.
In summary, the journey through the Terrible Twos can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. By maintaining your composure and offering choices, you can help your toddler navigate her feelings while keeping your sanity intact.
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