A brief article about toddler behavior and different disciple techniques that you can try.
As your baby moves into toddler hood, issues about disciplining become more important. Their language ability is increasing but it still does not contain enough words to describe the many sensations and emotions that they are experiencing. Acting out physically is the toddler's way of expressing himself until he learns the vocabulary. This is the time when boundaries are repeatedly tested. The key here is not the testing but the parent's ability to be consistent. If the toddler receives the same result every time, it creates a feeling of surety in the child. Even though they may fight against it, all children need some structure and rules.
Keeping a safe house is still as important as before because the ability to think before acting is not very mature. For behaviors that are not dangerous or destructive, try to redirect their attention to something else. With their language increasing, parents can have usually enough conversation to start making clear the various rules. Breaking those rules will result in a disciple being applied. One of the most commonly used ones is the 'time out'. Typically around one minute per year old, it is necessary for the parent to stand near them to enforce it.
Temper tantrums become more common, which leads to the common phrase 'the terrible twos'. Most tantrums come from the difference in wanting to do something with the capability to perform it. Toddlers want to do many things, but their desires are ahead of their physical and mental readiness. When dealing with a tantrum, it is best to ignore it if it can be done safely. This will let them know that a tantrum will not gain them what they want. With a little observation, it is possible for parents to head off tantrums before they get started. Parents need to stay calm during tantrums. Children need to know that when they are out of control, mommy and daddy can be relied on to help.
Toddlers spend a lot of time observing and mimicking their parents. This is the time to model good behaviors and manners. Reinforcing good actions with attention lets your child know what will get him approval. To acknowledge and encourage his growing independence, offer him simple choices when possible. Offer him the choice of two shirts to wear or something similar for a snack. Make sure that you can live with either choice though. By giving him some power, he is more likely to listen to you when you have to make a decision for him. Be careful not to use the word 'no' often or he will simply start tuning it out. You want them to count for the serious issues. Keep using the positive feedback to encourage your toddler to act in an appropriate manner.
The issue of spanking is a hot issue. Many supporting studies that show spanking does not work in the way parents intend it. Spanking typically leads the toddler to believe that hitting is how you get your way. Be prepared to try several types of disciple for your toddler's behavior. A certain method may work better than others may; it is up to the parent to discover it. Over time as toddlers grow, a method that worked previously may not anymore. Remember that no matter how annoyed or angry your toddler makes you, they will grow out of it.
