If these situations sound a little too familiar, you too may have a strong-willed toddler on your hands.
The good (or at least reassuring) news is this behavior is a common part of toddler development.
However, you may need to get a bit creative when it’s time to lay down the law.
Here’s how to get your tot to follow the rules without quashing her growing sense of independence.
Signs of a strong-willed toddler
You may have already figured out that you have a strong-willed toddler.
(They tend to make themselves known!)
Being strong-willed or stubborn is a common part of toddlerhood.
Toddlers are very curious and want to explore the physics of their world.
They’re in the process of testing the limits: of their environment, their parents and themselves.
Over time, most kids do grow more independent and mature.
But until then, they’re still toddlers, so expect at least some shenanigans.
Of course, you get to manufacture the choices so that the end goal is still the same.
She’s still getting buckled in that car seat either way, but she got to have a say.
Allow your toddler to pick the delivery method or medicine color.
And encourage curiosity within reason: Rude or unsafe behavior still isn’t okay.
Make being a good (house) citizen the most exciting news of the day.
you’ve got the option to even try making a sticker chart for some extrapositive reinforcement.
Likewise, you’ll need to enforce the house rules consistently with the same consequences.
Splashing all of the bathwater out the tub, for example, might mean an early bedtime.
Just remember that at this age, toddlers are still learning about the connection between actions and consequences.
While she may test these boundaries, the consistency provides a sense of safety and security.
It may engage her long enough for you to finish your errand.
The cashier will happily ring it up even if the box is half demolished.
What if you’re dealing with a tantrum in a restaurant from your high chair-bound tot?
Just remember the strategy: Dangle the bait first, then reel ‘em in.
Your toddler puts up a fight getting into the car?
The car is broken.
The only way we can fix it is if we all fasten our seat belts!"
If your toddler really wants to get moving, she’ll oblige.
Grin and bear it
If all else fails, simply suffer through it.
Yes, it’s horrible to drive with a screaming kid in the back of the car.
But it happens to every parent sometimes, so attempt to roll with it.
Put your window down, turn on some music and attempt to ignore your noisy passenger.
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