THE COMMANDMENTS OF TODDLER DISCIPLINE

Children are not born with social skills. It is human nature for them to start out with a survival-of-the-fittest mentality. That’s why you need to teach your toddler how to act appropriately and safely, when you’re around and when you’re not. Teach your children how they are supposed to behave. The seeds of discipline that you plant now will blossom later, and you will be very thankful for the fruits of your labor. Here are some of the commandments.

1. Expect Rough Spots.
There are certain situations and times of the day that tend to trigger bad behavior. Mostly it may be transitions from one activity to the next (waking up, going to bed, stopping play to eat dinner). Let your child know in advance so they are more prepared to switch gears.

2. Pick Your Battles.
If you say “no” so many times a day, it will lose its effectiveness. Categorize your child’s behavior, into significant and those too insignificant to bother with. If you see your child acting up because you are responding to your emails and you do not pay attention then they will eventually stop since it doesn’t bother you.

3. Introduce Consequences.
Your child should learn the natural outcomes of his behavior. In such instances you can pick something that they like if they do not follow your instructions accordingly. Remember, the aim is to teach a lesson so keep the item for a while then return only when they behave appropriately.

4. Do Not Back Down To Avoid Conflict.
It is evident you want to please your children, but you should not give in just to escape a showdown at the store. If you decide that your child cannot have a snack that they saw on the shelf, stick to it. Later, you’ll be happy you did.

5. Give Your Child Choices.
This will make them feel as if they have a vote. Just make sure you do not offer too many options and that they are all things that you want to accomplish, such as, “It is your choice: You can put your shoes on first, or your coat.”

6. Catch Your Child Being Good.
If you praise your children when they behave well, they will do it more often, and it will be less likely for them to behave badly just to get your attention. Positive reinforcement is best when trying to establish discipline.

7. Be A Good Role Model.
If you are calm under pressure, your child will take the cue. And if you have a temper tantrum when you are upset, expect that they will do the same. Your children are always watching you.

8. Do Not Spank.
Although you may be tempted at times, remember that you are the grown-up. Don’t resort to acting like a child. There are many more effective ways of getting your message across. Spanking your child for hitting or kicking you just shows him that it is okay to use force. Finally, if your toddler is acting up and you think you’re about to lose it; try to take a step back. You will get a better idea of which manipulative behaviors your child is using and you will get a fresh perspective on how to change your approach.

This post is from Nairobi Nanny, a company that offers experienced house managers and nannies. For more information email us on info@nairobinanny.com or call +254708518470.