We wish toddlers came with a manual, especially when their behavior is so contradictory. That’s because toddlers are struggling with conflicting feelings and they don’t know how to say what they want—or even know what they want! Here’s how moms can help.
If he is whining inconsolably…
Two-year-olds build up a lot of frustration in the course of the day and sometimes just need a safe place to let it all out. You can say, “Everybody needs to cry sometimes. Come snuggle with Mom.”
If he’s tired but can’t settle down…
When children’s bodies crave rest, they may experience a surge of adrenaline to compensate. A disruption in their regular routine can compound the problem. The antidote to this energy burst isn’t to move bedtime later. Stick to a set schedule, no matter how alert your child appears to be. Kids thrive on structure, even if they seem to resist it.
If he’s hungry but won’t eat…
Sometimes kids refuse food because sitting down to eat requires stopping some other activity that’s more fun. But instead of saying, “Mom, I just want to finish this game,” they’re more likely to say, ‘Yucky food” Simply point to the clock, and tell him that it’s dinnertime. Children appreciate predictability, and a regular dinner hour circumvents the frustrating debate over whether or not they are, indeed, hungry. Remember, too, that physical cues of hunger and thirst are often unrecognized by small children.
If he wants to play, but won’t join the fun…
Children don’t know how to say ‘I feel shy.’ They don’t know how to make sense of these feelings, let alone verbalize them. A little encouragement and patience may be what your child needs before he is ready to join the party.
Photo from sheknows.com