Parenting Toddlers
Give choices
Avoid the power struggle with little children by giving them a choice of options which are acceptable to you. Your toddler, for example, won't leave the park when you need to. Instead of carrying him off screaming, give him the choice ‘would you like to walk home pretending to be lions or would you like me to give you a piggy back?' This way you're not giving in, but you've successfully avoided a stand-off.
I can do it by myself!
Toddlers demand independence in their new world. Getting them involved keeps them busy and empowers them, and involvement is a real positive parenting keyword. Even a toddler can wash and dry plastic dishes, wash the veggies, help set the table, fold his PJs and load the washing machine. If you have children of different ages, find a chore where it's safe for them to all work together, like washing the car.
Stop tantrums before they start
First check, is your child tired, hungry or unwell? Sort these out before you proceed. Still about to tantrum? There are lots of positive parenting techniques you can use to get her back on track: see if you can act quickly to distract your child or involve her in something immediate. Or, go down to her level and talk calmly about what's wrong and suggest alternatives. Or change your situation (go outside, move room), sing a funny song, engage her with a funny story to take her mind off what's bothering her. Keep your tone calm and kind.
Take time
Attention really is the most important gift you can give your toddler. They need reassurance that they are loved and accepted by their family and taking time each day for a one-to-one game, book, stroll or tickle will help build a relationship and make the rest of your positive parenting easier and more loving.
Read on for more of our handy tips on being a good parent to new borns, babies, kids and teens!