subject: How to Handle Terrible Twos [print this page] How to Handle Terrible Twos How to Handle Terrible Twos
A child is considered as the little angel in the house. However, when he approaches two years of age, his actions are not so angel-like anymore. You will notice that he makes tantrums and throws his things. This stage is called terrible twos. This time, the child explores the freedom he has without considering his limitations.
Parents serve as the children's first teachers. It is the parents' responsibility to teach the child about freedom and its limitations. This may be hard but knowing about these things as part of the development process can help in handling terrible twos.
At this growing up stage, disciplining the child cannot be avoided. One way to discipline your child is to take away his toys when he hits or throws it to you. Another way is to limit is TV viewing time. Through these you will be able to make him realize that everything he does in life will have its consequences. After the punishment, talk to your child and make sure he understands it clearly on why he was being punished.
Have consistency in giving punishments to make it effective and to avoid getting the child confused. Having consistency may be hard to do but once your child learns to determine what makes you upset then he will think first before doing it again.
One of the embarrassing situations in a parents' life is when the child disobeys them in public. To avoid if not minimize the chances of such circumstance to happen, teach the child proper and good behavior at home. The teaching process may take longer but it is worth it.
You cannot handle terrible twos with discipline alone. Remember that such misbehaviors happen because the child wants to experience independence hence, it would be best to give it to him in appropriate situations. Letting your child eat and brush his teeth on his own are ways to let him enjoy his freedom.
Giving your child a reward will also help in making him understand the difference of good and bad. When you appreciate and congratulate his good behaviors and you also give him reward, it will be much easier for him to know how he should behave.
Terrible twos is simply a phase and eventually your child will grow from it. Yet, such stage still requires you to guide your child. When you teach your child the difference of right from wrong, you will be sure that he can take care of his life on his own.
