Hellobee Boards

This is totally age appropriate and very frustrating. We have some success with natural consequences but you have to be prepared to actually follow through. Also they are testing and trying to get a reaction so I just try to stay as calm as possible.

“No splashing outside the bath, please. If you splash one more time, bath time is over.” And actually take kid out of bath if they do it again.

“Please don’t throw food on the floor. If you do that again, dinner time is over.”

For bedtime/pajama stalling, I say “if you don’t come here for PJs now, we won’t have time for all our stories.”

This And make sure you follow through every time. It might take a few times...it makes it harder in the short term but WAY easier in the long run.

This is super common and normal! Around 2 is when parents start to have an “expectation gap” in terms of their child’s behavior. Basically, we think they are able to control their impulses way more than they actually can, which leads to frustration and big feelings from everyone. I try to phrase things by what I WANT happen, not by what I don’t. So for instance I would say “water stays in the tub. If you can’t keep it in the tub, bath time will be over” then I would take him out and say “you were having a hard time keeping the water in the tub so bath time is over. We can try again tomorrow” Calm and matter of fact. I try really hard not to get upset about his behavior. If I need a break I say “I am feeling frustrated and need a break” and then I walk away for a few minutes. It’s fine for kids to see how you manage your own emotions too! Also, if he cried when following through, I just say something like “oh you really wanted to stay in the tub. We can try again tomorrow. Do you need a few minutes to be upset or would you like a cuddle? I’m here when you need me”

You’re doing a great job and remember that this is normal!