The terrible two is a phase that is quite likely for an infant to enter. Due to the lack of expression and their inability to control their actions or emotions, your two-year-old will throw tantrums and have meltdowns making you question their behaviour. In this article, we’ll discuss the symptoms of terrible twos so you know what to expect as well as how to deal with your toddler’s terrible twos.
Why are the twos so terrible?
The terrible twos are known to occur at age 2 in your infant’s life as they start to walk, talk, feel emotions and understand a lot more as they physically and mentally grow. However, because of their inability to properly communicate and express their emotions, they can get very easily frustrated. Hence, the terrible twos occur.
Terrible twos symptoms
Via: Getty Images – Terrible Twos
After your child turns two, they will likely start to show signs of aggression and emotional meltdowns. This is because, at this age, they start to feel the need to control certain aspects of their lives but fail to express their emotions, voice or actions because of their lack of understanding or inability to communicate. Here are signs that you might be struggling with terrible twos:
- Screaming
- Tantrums
- Biting
- Hitting and kicking
- Meltdowns
- Fighting with siblings
- Throwing things
How to deal with terrible twos
Naptime is essential
via iStock – Terrible Twos
When your child misses their nap, they become cranky and unable to control their emotions. It’s normal for a child to get distracted and forget to sleep, but at this age, they need their nap. Making naptime part of their daily routine will help you avoid the terrible two tantrums.
Stick to a meal schedule
Via: Freepik – Terrible Twos
Hunger can be a trigger for emotional breakdowns and tantrums as toddlers sometimes do not understand the emotion. That’s why sticking to meal schedules and planning your outings based on your meal schedule could help you overcome the terrible twos.
Keep your toddler busy
Via: Getty Images – Terrible Twos
When children are bored, they start to act up. Cure boredom by keeping your toddler busy with creative and fun ideas.
Consistency is key
Via: iStock – Terrible Twos
Be consistent so your child knows that they won’t be able to get away with things. There are a lot of times where parents cave in because they’re in public and don’t want to draw attention or make a scene. However, in that case, you can remove yourself from the situation or calmly respond to your toddler without giving them what they want.
Keep rules simple
Via: Raising Kids – Terrible Twos
When a child understands the rules, they know how to follow them and what to expect. Before going into a candy store, make sure you tell them that they are not allowed to touch anything, or that they’ll only get one piece of candy.
Offer choices instead of giving orders
Via: Aid to Life
Instead of giving orders, give your child choices to help them feel they are in control. Ask them if they would like to wear a red or blue t-shirt, or whether they’d like to eat now or in 10 mins. This avoids them objecting and causing a tantrum because they made the choice.
Don’t give in
Via: Thinkstock – Terrible Twos
Whatever they do, wherever you are, don’t give in. Once a toddler knows you caved once, they will keep going until you reach your limit.
Stay calm
Via: Adobe Stock – Terrible Twos
While the terrible twos can make you feel depressed and make you want to yell and scream, it is important to stay calm so your child does not feed off of your stress.
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Sources used in this article:
- What to Expect from the Terrible Twos- Healthline
7 Tips to Help You Survive Your Toddler’s ‘Terrible Twos’ – Cleveland Clinic
- Win the battle of the terrible twos – Web Md
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