Toddlers Never Cease to Overwhelm Themselves

It’s amazing how toddlers challenge themselves in getting involved with adult matters. According to the developmental stages of Erik Erickson, toddlers (kids between ages 18 months to 3 years) focus on independence. This means that the child has to rebel against their parents’ wishes to gain independence. They resist parental demands, rather they are fond of giving orders. We usually hear them say “NO,” that is why toddler years are being referred to as the Terrible Two’s. During this stage of development, toddlers are very self-centered, possessive, often negative and frustrated, no ability to choose between alternatives, and they are resistive to change. It is a time for them to gain more control over their bodies and acquire new skills. Being able to perform activities by themselves and learning right from wrong gives them the opportunity to build self-esteem and autonomy. Temper tantrums are common, that’s why it is important for parents to be consistent in their discipline and set limits on the child’s acceptable and unacceptable behaviors.

Here are some parenting guidelines in dealing with toddlers:

· As parents, we must behave how we want our kids to behave because they copy parents’ actions. According to research, toddlers engage in so-called “emotional eavesdropping”, a term used when kids listen and watch emotional reactions directed by one adult to another and use this emotional observation and information to profile their own behavior. Yelling, spanking, being angered easily, and impatience may be imitated and instilled in their minds.
· Putting stress on appropriate versus inappropriate behavior is important. Positive behaviors should be recognized and rewarded. Setting limits and time-out should be initiated for negative behaviors.
· Teach them the concepts of thank you, sorry, please, sharing with others, and respect for others, young or old.
· Play with them; be their friends.
· Engage with activities like problem-solving, social skills, and creativity. This will enhance their gift.
· Listen to music together and sing with them.
· Read books and watch educational movies together. Have fun!