Emily Chan
When a child turns two, that can be a tumultuous time for parents. Figuring out how to effectively discipline a two-year-old is no walk in the park. Of course, it can be a challenge to dole out discipline to kids of all ages, but parenting a toddler is its own unique kind of task.
Toddlers can be troublemakers that test your boundaries. At that age, they’re learning new skills every day and are eager to use them. It’s important to teach them what actions are acceptable to prevent them from engaging in dangerous or inappropriate behaviors, such as running into the street, hitting others, and throwing food.
In the past, many parents resorted to spanking their children as a means of teaching them a lesson. However, parents today are interested in gentler, more positive methods of child discipline.
According to the American Psychological Association, positive discipline strategies that are developmentally appropriate can be very beneficial to both kids and parents. They can help with emotional regulation, communication, and self-esteem.
It can be tough to reel a two-year-old in, but it can be done. Here are a few tips on how to deal with your toddler’s misbehavior.
Choose Your Battles
Sometimes, it isn’t worth the effort to fight with your kid about every little thing. Is it really so bad if your daughter wants to wear her princess costume to the grocery store? It doesn’t harm anyone or get in the way of anything. Save your energy for the issues that do matter, like your toddler brushing their teeth.
There’s a difference between letting something slide and giving in to your toddler’s demands, though. Determine what your priorities are, set limits, and establish consequences.
Be Consistent
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