Do you sometimes feel like you need a break from your toddler? I know I do! A little calm would be nice right? From crying about everything, to screaming and whining, the chaos can seem constant.
But, as parents it’s our job to keep calm and set the pace. Easier said than done, I know! Of course, no one is perfect. We all loose our sense of control, because we let the toddler set the pace. However, I have found the following tips helpful for how to have an easier day with your toddler.
Remember Time will Fly by
Think of how just a few months ago your toddler could not walk, talk semi-audibly, or eat independently. Time is flying so quickly! Especially if your toddler also goes to daycare and you don’t have as much time with your toddler. You want to the most of every opportunity you have. You don’t want to think of your child as a burden, but as a joy!
Remember that your child will grow up before you know it. This is the only opportunity you have at this toddler stage to help your toddler understand what it is acceptable behavior and what is unacceptable behavior.
Help your toddler adequately communicate
Keep in mind that your toddler is actually trying to communicate. Maybe she is asserting independence, or not wanting to do as she is told, rebelling, complaining. Try to judge the what the situation is and respond in a way that teaches them what acceptable behavior is.
This is an interesting phenomenon that we need to be very mindful of. They don’t understand how to express themselves and have VERY few words. Respond with empathy, but fully judge the situation to regulate your response.
You are a mirror
The way that you respond to your toddler will be what they will mirror. For instance, if you want a kind child, respond to your toddler with kindness.
I have seen a lot of parents consistently respond to their toddlers with anger. In my opinion, it cultivates temperamental and fearful children.
I have also seen parents respond with apathy, which seems to cultivate children that don’t care about others/their surrounding and are therefore completely out of control.
HELP your toddler to be A likeable person
See your toddler as a separate human who you have the responsibility to like and not just love. Doing this will be extremely empowering for you as a parent because it helps you try to understand your toddler more.
You’ll be able to see what may prompt certain behaviors. Having this information will help you keep your cool as you help to regulate your toddler’s behavior.
Plan out your time in advance
Get excited about your day. Get more hyped up about your life with your child. Plan out fun activities and enjoy the experiences with your toddler and through your toddler.
The world is so fresh and new to your toddler’s young mind. And now your toddler is finally beginning to interact with it. You have such a wonderful advantage at this stage to gaining insight about your child. This is an opportunity to encourage positive social interactions and enforce boundaries that you deem adequate for your toddler’s safety.
Remember that if you loose your cool it’s okay. You’re not going to understand everything your child is trying to communicate. So forgive yourself and learn. When I loose my calm I try my best not to respond immediately. I remind myself that I’m the best person for the job and that’s why I’m the parent! So my child is tailored for me.
Do you have tips that help make an overwhelming day with your toddler easier? Please leave a comment!