There is a lot you can do to prevent discipline problems with young children. Read on to find out some easy ways to manage toddler behavior before problems have even begun.
Get Into A Routine
Routines are very helpful to toddlers because they represent stability. Do not underestimate this – children need it when faced with the intense emotions and huge developmental changes that define being a toddler.
Make a list of the biggest behavior issues that you have with your toddler – then create routines to help deal with them.
For example, start getting your toddler dressed straight after breakfast every day. After a while she will not only accept this, but actually come to expect it and may even remind you if you forget one day!
Restricted Choices
Some form of choice gives young children a much-needed feeling of being able to control their life. It’s one of the things that separates them from babies and in many ways defines toddlerhood. Nobody is suggesting that toddlers should choose everything that they eat, wear and play with. What does prevent issues arising is giving children a restricted choice about certain things.
Let’s say young Alex doesn’t want to take his bath. The best thing to do is have 2 different bottles of bubble bath at the ready. Don’t be surprised if he ends up so preoccupied choosing which one he’d like in the bath that the argument gets forgotten.
Diversionary Tactics
Children of this age have such short attention spans – this is a gift in terms of toddler discipline. Some foolproof distraction techniques include animal impressions, doing a silly dance and playing peek-a-boo.
Be Firm But Calm
Toddlers will test parental boundaries – expect this and don’t lose your temper when it happens. Be firm but calm and cheerful – used alongside the other methods detailed above, this is very effective at diffusing potential conflict.
You need to be firm. If you show self-discipline in seeing a consequence through, it will eventually teach your child self-discipline as well. A positive manner helps young children get over what seems like a huge disappointment at the time.
Never Say Never -Or Don’t, Or No
No, no, no. Young children adore this word. Pay attention to how often you say it – are you unwittingly teaching your child to use it even more?
Turn those negative statements around. For example:
“No more biscuits” becomes “Biscuits are finished”
Replace “No running!” with “Stop!”
“Be kind” replaces “No more hitting”
You may not improve your toddler’s behavior overnight with these strategies, but be patient and consistent – you will see positive changes before long.