Messy homes, scattered toys, untidy floor with food all over. Oh wait, are you mamma of a toddler? We got you right. Toddlers are the toughest to handle and disciplining a toddler can be tricky. They have just started exploring their independence and try to find their identity and this is the main reason they get so stubborn and hard to deal with.However, they have limited ability to reason and communicate at this age. Therefore, disciplining them at the right age can shape their future.
But disciplining a toddler doesn’t mean restricting him/her to a set of rules and resorting to punishments. As a parent, you must understand that children are fearless by nature and hence you should not stop them from experimenting and exploring.
But you must instruct and train a toddler to implement positive and good behavior. We know that disciplining and raising a child is never an easy task but with some efforts you surely smooth the journey. So, if you are also wondering for ways to raise a disciplined child, keep reading.
Ways to discipline a Toddler
There is no ‘one‘ fool-proof method of disciplining a toddler as all children are different. You have to try different tools and watch how your toddler respond or react to those methods. Your toddler tantrums can get annoying if you do not handle them in time. So, here are some useful strategies to discipline your naughty little one:
1. Be constant
As a parent, you need to be consistent in your approach while trying to discipline your child. Toddlers need constant reminders to break their pattern of bad behavior. Parents have to be unfailing to teach them improved ways of behaving.
Setting a routine for your toddler will provide him/her with the necessary security to behave in a calm and proper manner. This means following a consistent schedule for mealtimes, playtime, naps, and bedtimes.
2. Consider Your Toddler’s Perspective
Toddlers find it difficult to express their emotions in an appropriate manner. They display tantrums in case of disagreement.
For example, if you take away his/her ball saying playtime is over but he/she wants to play more and you still refuse, then he/she may show his annoyance by crying loudly. Looking at things from your toddler’s point of view may help you prevent a budding meltdown.
3. Optimistic Reinforcement
Make a routine of appreciating the good behavior of your toddler which will encourage him/her to repeat it. For example, praise his/her good conduct at the table or the way he/she tidied up the room. When you appreciate, he/she will be happy and understand that he/she did a good deed. This will strive him/her to do even better and improve.
4. Communicate Properly
When your toddler shows unacceptable behavior, disapprove it but keep your language and tone under control. Losing control and shouting at your toddler may not be a good idea. This will only aggravate his/her bad behaviour. Of course, you might be angry but take some time to calm yourself before talking to your child. The best approach can be to use a firm tone to condemn the action but not the child. If you want to discipline your child, you must keep your tone in check.
5. Express Love
A parent’s touch meets a child needs for physical affection and stimulation and makes him/her feel secure. A nurturing touch may help fulfil your toddler’s need for physical affection and security. Parents who opt for a nurturing approach while interacting with their toddler encourage healthy attachment and good behaviour. Freely express your love by cuddling, hugging, kissing or simply holding your toddler in your arms.
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