Handling difficult toddler behavior can be a huge stressor. It can attract stares in public places, push back prior plans, and even stop an outing in its tracks. There are many ways to handle these tough situations, so here are a few tips that may help:
Setting expectations ahead of time will give kids an idea of what is expected of them at a certain time and place. It also gives them a sense of potential discipline if their behavior falls off track. You may need to remind your young ones of the expectations a few times before it really sticks, but you will have a better chance of a smooth outing.
No one enjoys hearing “No” without a proper explanation. The same goes for children. This does not mean you should never say no. However, when there are other options, it is beneficial to point them out. Make a point of telling your kids what they can do when they propose something that won’t work. This creates a very different experience than being shut down with a harsh “No.”
There are certainly non-negotiables you have set with your kids, such as wearing their seatbelt and finishing their vegetables. These are situations that should not be argued, but there are also moments when you should choose your battles. Not everything is worth an argument.
Giving your child two options that have the same end result will make them feel more in control of their decisions, but the task that needs to be done is still accomplished regardless. For example, “Would you like to put away your toys now or in two minutes?” or “Do you want to put your shoes on by yourself or would you like my help?”
Kids tend to do better when you warn them that it is time for their fun to come to a close. Imagine how you would feel if you were in the middle of a great conversation with a friend and you were suddenly pulled away and ushered out the door. Think of your child’s behavior in this situation as well; no one enjoys being immediately pulled away from something they are enjoying. It’s also a good idea to use a timer or give a five-minute warning for a more precise end time.
At Children’s World Learning Center, we know that the early years of life matter because early experiences affect the brain. As a child’s brain grows, the quality of the experiences that a child has creates either a sturdy or fragile foundation for all of the development and behaviors that follow. Parents want to make educated choices for their families, and getting things right the first time is better than trying to fix them later.
Scientific research has shown that the most important components of a high-quality program are the educational levels of staff and the activities that occur on a daily basis with children. That’s why here at Children’s World Learning Center, we strive to deliver the highest quality childcare in Greenville NC. Contact Us Today!
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