Okay, so it's more like they just happened overnight. One day he's a sweet little angel who shares, listens and shows love all the time. Then the next, he's a little demon! I was waiting for his head to start spinning around. I think I can deal with "no", but not that combined with hitting, defying everything I say, and just being a brat!
They tell you to be patient...much easier said than done, especially when you're pregnant and mood swings are inevitable. No one ever gives you advice for these situations. I try to stay calm, but every time I have to repeat myself my voice gets louder and louder. I've been reading through articles on Parents.com and they're really helpful when dealing with the child, but not dealing with the child while you're carrying another. It makes it that much more difficult. I'm working on getting through this "phase". After reading through the website www.parents.com and some of their very helpful articles I did find a few points that will go into effect in our household that completely make sense.
Toddlers need a little independence. I understand that keeping them from this independence makes then frustrated. Other things that make them frustrated is not having the ability to express themselves or not being able to do something they really want to do on their own. I'm sure that would make any of us frustrated. Working through it and trying to find things that work or help to curb the newfound attitude is the trick.
If you're a parent and your child can talk, you've heard the word "no" more times than you would like, I'm sure. You've probably also dealt with hitting or pinching or some other form of negative behavior. Sometimes it's so hard, but it's a must-do, to work patiently with your children. Explaining everything to children (who can understand, of course) is a great way to help them comprehend why they can or cannot do something. Sometimes if they hit for example, you could tell them that hitting is not nice and that it hurts. Explain to them what they can do instead, like say that you're mad. Encourage them to use their words instead of negative actions.
Defiance and resistance...need I say more! It's hard to get a toddler to do something you want them to do. Sometimes it's darn near impossible. Here is some thing to try out. Rather than telling them what you don't want them to do, tell them what you want them to do. It keeps it positive. A toddler is a toddler! No matter how much you try to curb the inevitable "phase" It will still happen. The most you can do is work through it.
I will admit that I won't trade these years for anything. I love it when my son comes up to me with pursed lips for no reason at all. Or when he climbs on my lap and snuggles close. Or, when he does or says something that is as cute as all get-out! Those times make it all worthwhile. Those will also be the times you remember when you look back on this time in your lives. It's the absolute best.
