The Terrible and Not So Terrible 2's

The Terrible and Not So Terrible Two's

Almost over night your child has changed, from the sweet rosy cheek always smiling little angel, to a hyper moody stubborn toddler. Two is a special age, and as moms we all go through it, and we all survive it.  All children go through it, and it's not always a reflection of how you are as a parent.  Two year old's are learning to test their limits, wanting to feel more independent, but still very much the baby in that they are really attached to mom, and sometimes only mom.  Don't worry moms this is really only a phase.

If you haven't started already this is the age to start time-outs and reinforce it with positive affection afterwards.  As a parent you really have to put the effort into not giving into your child's temper and inappropriate behavior, and this may take some sacrifice from you.  By being willing to leave a store if he/she is having a fit, or taking a break from a meal to remove the child from the table until they are calm enough to return.  The more effort you put in the greater the reward.

Temper tantrums are a big part of being two, and can not be allowed. The first time your child throws one you really need to lay the law down. If you are in a public place your first move should be to leave. Do not give into these fits or they will get worse and more frequent.  If you are at home walk away from the child, do not give the tantrum any attention, there is no reasoning with a child who is having a temper tantrum, so save the talk for once they stop.  When the fit is over place your child in time out and really explain in words that your two year old will understand, that you will not tolerate these fits. This really needs to be re enforced or they will get worse and uncontrollable.

Your child is wanting to be more independent and giving them the opportunity to do this, with words of encouragement and making sure they know your proud of them, really builds them up.  They are just beginning to understand the difference between right and wrong, and to test their limits as well as your patience, but sometimes implementing a reward system can help you both feel successful. 

Two year old's can become extra attached mom, they are after all still baby's, but you can not allow them to become so attached that they can not even be left with dad.  As hard as it will be to do you may have to just leave your child crying, but there are ways to help them. Before you leave tell them where your going and that you will be back then, get them involved in a game or playing with a toy, after you think they are settled go ahead and slip out.  It will get easier after the first couple of tries.

Never fear this really does only last roughly a year, so stay the course remember the golden rule of follow through, and you both will make it through the year. Remember you are building the foundation that is going to set how your child behaves in public, with others, and with you. Teaching them now to understand their feelings and how to express them appropriately will go a long way,  I would love to hear from you and what issues you may be dealing with.