Two year old’s are tough. They are trying to learn how to communicate and work through their emotions. They’re testing your boundaries and seeing how what they do impacts their world. And they just need you to be consistent. The terrible twos don’t need to be terrible, here’s some practical tips on how to make the terrible twos terrific!
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Breathe
No matter what happens always take a minute to breathe. Stop, take a deep breath in and slowly let it out. Close your eyes if you need to.
You Time
Make sure you take time for yourself. Have your parents, spouse, a good friend spend time with your two year old. Go do something that fills your cup. Choose something sweet to indulge in and spend some time doing your favorite hobby. Take a long bath or go get a pedicure.
Read A Book
Set down with your two year old when they’re stressing you out and read a book. Do the voices. Choose an interactive book that makes them giggle. Some of our favorites include “theres a monster in your book”, “magic dandelion”, and “llama llama hide & seek”.
Listen To Music
Sometimes turning up some music and dancing with your little one can help you connect and reduce stress in your household. Sing at the top of your lungs and bounce your little one while you dance around the kitchen or living room.
Be Silly
This is a tip for when you’re in control of your emotions. Chase your kids around with a silly voice, play a silly game, make them laugh and giggle. Connecting with your child can help them with their emotions.
When you’re asking your two year old to do something and they don’t want to you can make it silly to help them do the task. The other day I picked up my daughter and carried her around as she picked up items and put them away. She was doing what I asked and having fun at the same time.
Words
Teach your kid which words they need to say to get what they want. If they scream because someone does something they don’t like, tell them they can say, “I don’t like that”, or “stop”, or “no thank you”.
Let Them Help
It can be so difficult to let your kids help, but they really want to practice doing what you are doing. Let them start to crack open eggs, let them stir, let them do the laundry with you, let them sweep, let them wipe up their messes. They may behave better when they are allowed to help you with everyday tasks.
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Two year old’s can be difficult, but wait until they turn three! Enjoy the time your kid thinks you’re hilarious and enjoys learning all the things you can teach them.
