Sometimes I just feel like giving up when it comes to raising my toddler! What can I do?
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To survive what is often referred to as "the terrible two' and three's," here are some traits you should have or begin developing during your lovebug's toddler years:
1) Curiosity
At two or three years old, it's hard to tell what your child is trying to tell you. After all, how many kids of this age do you know that have an outstanding vocabulary? Probably not very many. In order to fully understand, for example, what is causing those tantrums, you should do your best to try to be objective and play the detective role. Put yourself in your little one's shoes. The better you comprehend his emotions, the easier it will be to see where he's coming from when he's, let's say, having a hissy fit.
2) Initiative
Does it bother you when your tiny tot drags his pacifier everywhere or tries to sleep with you and your partner? If so, take the initiative and begin putting an end to these irksome and often disruptive habits.
Often parents let their children continue doing things that bother them because they think trying to break patterns of behavior is just going to be a battle. However, you may find that your toddler is actually ready to try sleeping in his own bed or stop sucking his thumb, but it's you that is convinced he doesn't want to.
3) Mental fortitude
Toddlers are known to be difficult at times (just think how much you've felt like giving up after your kid refuses to eat dinner). Yet, you should note that part of being a parent means laying down the law, even if it means that your child is going to kick and scream. Your bundle of joy is smarter than he looks and he's going to take advantage of any signs of weakness or ambivalence, even if he's just two or three years old.