Many parents consider parenting toddlers and kids as a major step up during the child-raising process. Indeed, unlike babies, toddlers and kids are now capable of communicating, expressing their needs as well as their likes and dislikes to their moms and dads. However, just like video games, moving a “level up” will present you with a new set of problems and challenges.
The term “toddler” refers to kids aged 1 to 6, also known as the “pre-school years”. Many child psychologists refer to this period as the first step on the road to a child’s attaining true independence. This begins when the child learns how to walk. From a social standpoint, he or she learns how to interact with the people around them. What they have not yet acquired is a complete sense of responsibility, and parents need to impress upon them the differences of private and public behaviors, as well as teach them to get rid of undesirable behaviors.
At this point, toddlers learn ways by which they can “manipulate” their parents to fulfill their needs and desires. These behaviors will include crying and/or screaming and temper tantrums. Early on, you must curb these behaviors. The best way to deal with crying, tantrum and irrational demands is by saying “No!” or “Stop!” in a firm and low tone of voice. Why is this method more effective than yelling at them? Speaking to them in a lower tone will distract a toddler from their tantrum so that they concentrate to listen to what you are saying to them. Toddlers who throw a fit because you refuse to buy them a toy they like are best ignored. Do not give them any attention until they stop. Once they are calm, explain to them in firm words why you cannot buy the toy for them. Never promise that you will buy it at a later time.
Children beyond the age of 6 are already considered as within their “school years”. They are now capable of logical understanding as well as recognizing the importance of responsibilities. They begin to assert their independence through logic and reasoning, although in some cases, the child may show defiant, obnoxious or even abusive behaviors.
Usually, children who present with these undesirable behaviors are struggling with problems or stresses that they could not solve on their own. This is where effective open communication comes in. If your child seems troubled, encourage them to share their problems with you. Rather than give them a solution, guide them through logical thinking on how they could arrive at the same solution on their own. Do not permit violent behaviors like punching walls or kicking pets as a means to relieve stress. Instead, let them deal with their problems while at the same time impressing the need for them to take responsibility for their actions.
Don’t be frustrated when your toddler or kid starts crying or screaming in attempts to get their own way. Learn more tips on effectively parenting toddlers and kids today!
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