Help on the Terrible Two's

Consistency is definitely the key, as hard as it is at times, it pays off eventually. Setting a timer or saying "2 minutes left" really worked well for me. I started doing that when my daughter was 2 and now she's 3 1/2, I have no problems getting her to move on or stop an activity. She used to have tantrums every time we tried to switch gears or leave somewhere before she was ready. Good luck and remember you're not the only one.

Hello,

I have not veiwed all of your respomses.So if I suggest something that has already been said I apologize:)

One of the biggest mistakes parents make with children is *asking* them to do something.If you form it in to a question the child is going to say *NO* Try *telling* her to do what you would like and see if that makes a difference.

I have learned the best way to handle a tantrum is to walk away in to another room.I know it *sounds* mean...But it does work!

I worked in dayare for a long time and I have used this on quite a few children.

God Bless!

Consistency is key- there must be a consequence EVERY time she is disobedient. Also, remember that 2 year olds are often frustrated because they want to be independent, but lack all of the skills necessary to be independent. Although it is extremely frustrating, she is just imitating you when she points her finger and tells you no. She doesn't know her boundaries, so it's up to you to set them for her. This is a learning time for her;she's learning that there are many things that mommy/daddy can say or do that she can't, so be patient.
Don't make everything a battle. Choose your battles and allow her to make some decisions of her own when possible. This may cut down on some of her behavior problems. Also, try giving her a heads-up when she's playing and you need her to switch activities (i.e. You could say, "In 2 more minutes, you can put your baby doll down to sleep and come get ready to eat dinner." You can set a timer, since she has no real concept of time) This way you're not just abruptly stopping her play time with orders to do the next thing.
I hope this advice helps. Remember, it's only a phase and things will eventually get better! Good luck!

i grew up in an independant baptist church and i know what my pastor would of told me to do with a two year old that wouldn't listen to their mother. i suggest u ask your pastor and see what he/she says about it. my pastor's suggestions worked. tapping the bottom or leg isn't for everyone but it always worked for me and i have grown boys that are wonderful people that are gentle as lambs. they clearly understood that discipline done with love is neccessary. good luck and God Bless. p.s. i never tap with my hands. hands are for holding and loving children.

What has helped for me is being really specific when I tell my 2 1/2 year old Emily to do something. Instead of just 'Clean up your toys!' - which always get a no - I say 'Can you find ALL of the stuffed animals and put them in the basket? Can you get all the books and put them right here?' Breaking it down seems to make it less overwhelming!

I have a 20 month old and I'm struggling with discipline too. I'm not sure how much I can do with him being so young. I'll be reading these responses for ideas!

T., she's two, get on your knees and ask her to help you clean up. not ready yet to ask her to vacuum the rooms but she will copy what you're doing.
if you point your finger at her she will do the exact same thing because she thinks that's what she's supposed to do since mom is doing it.
if all fails, ignore her tantrums eventually she will see she isn't getting the attention she seeks through screams
good luck
vlora

Consistancy WILL pay off. AS tiring as it may seem.