| A number of years ago, shortly after my son was | | | | toddler get through age two and avoid more conflict |
| born, I was warned by various friends of mine who | | | | than necessary: |
| were also parents, about the dreaded terrible twos. | | | | * Establish routines and apply them consistently |
| Unfortunately for me, the terrible twos later became | | | | * Limited choices give them a feeling like they are in |
| the terrible threes, fours, fives etc. but that's the topic | | | | power without allowing bad choices |
| of another article! This period in early childhood | | | | * Set limits |
| development is probably best described as your | | | | * Don't give in to tantrums |
| toddler saying 'no' to most everything and throwing | | | | * Use of time-outs as a means of discipline |
| frequent temper tantrums. | | | | * Set up your house so your toddler can explore |
| It's important that you as a parent realize that this is a | | | | safely |
| perfectly normal and expected stage of your toddler's | | | | Although the terrible twos can be a stressful time for |
| development. He or she is beginning to try to establish | | | | parents, knowing what to expect and the best ways |
| independence and just hasn't yet acquired the | | | | to handle it will make it go much smoother. By following |
| communication skills necessary. The best your two | | | | the guidelines outlined above, both you and your toddler |
| year old can manage at this point is to yell 'no' and | | | | will get through it. Who knows, maybe you'll enjoy it so |
| maybe a little kicking and screaming thrown in to make | | | | much, you'll want to have another two year old |
| their point. | | | | sometime! |
| Here are some ideas to help both you and your | | | | |