How to Stop a 2-Year-Old From Whining

For a parent, few things on Earth can be more stressful and frustrating than the nonstop sound of a 2-year-old whining. The sound of whining can be grating and can indicate to parents that a child is looking to get his way. Many parents tend to get frustrated by whining instead of perhaps looking at the big picture, however. Whining isn't always a sign of a spoiled child, but can be a child's way of trying to communicate something, whether it is hunger, attention or physical discomfort.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape recorder and tape
  • Jar with coins

Instructions

    • 1

      Avoid giving in. When a 2-year-old pleads and whines, it is important never to respond to her request. Instead, tell her to speak in her regular tone and that once she does, you will be all ears. Ignore your whining 2-year-old by turning your back to her or engaging in another activity, whether it's reading aloud or singing to yourself.

    • 2

      Show him what whining sounds like. Your 2-year-old probably is unaware of just what whining is or how annoying the sound of it is. Tape him talking both in his regular voice and in his whining voice. Play both voices back to him to help him understand exactly what you mean when you say that he is whining.

    • 3

      Give your child a reward for stopping her whining. An incentive can help your cause greatly. Put 50 cents (5 dimes) in a jar for your child on the kitchen counter. Tell her that each time she whines, you will promptly take out one of those dimes away. If she has any dimes left by the time she has to go to bed that night, tell her she will be allowed to keep them.

    • 4

      Provide positive reinforcement. It is not uncommon for parents to tell their 2-year-old that their whining voice is unpleasant. However, using positive reinforcement when the child is not whining can be effective. Thank your child when he starts using his regular speaking voice again. Indicate to your child that you notice his change in tone and that you appreciate it.

    • 5

      Join in on the whining. When all else fails, consider giving your child a taste of her own medicine. Whine back at her exactly the way she is to you when she doesn't stop whining.

    • 6

      Follow through with your words. When disciplining a 2-year-old regarding whining, it is vital to keep your word. If you tell your child that you will not speak to him when he talks in a whining voice, but you eventually do, it will not reinforce the point home to him that you are serious. As a result, he will not learn his lesson.

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