How to Discipline Your Terrible Two Toddler

We have all seen a toddler throw a tantrum and wonder, "Where did that child's parents go wrong?" But sometimes it is not their fault and the situation is out of their hands. My second child was in preschool during this age and began immitating the other children. I have always starting discipling my children at a very young age, with no problems, but after attending preschool there was nothing I could do to calm her down. She was the most stubborn child I have ever seen. Spanking didn't help, and neither did any advice from my friends or family. I had to specialize a treatment that worked best for my child, although I have never had to use it on my other children. She is now nine, and I couldn't ask for a more well behaved child. I get kudos for her through her classroom teachers, and from family where before they had their doubts!

Things You'll Need

  • Your child's favorite doll, stuffed animal, toy, etc.
  • Spray bottle
  • Cold Water
  • The ability to stay calm and patient

Instructions

    • 1

      During a tantrum, the first thing you need to do is get the toddler's attention. I used a spray bottle filled with cold water, and barely squirted just enough on her neck/chest to grab her attention. It worked everytime with me. There are other suggestions in the "Tips" section.

    • 2

      After you have their attention, calmly tell them that their behavior is unacceptable (in a way that your child can understand) and it's time for a time out. Time Outs didn't work for my child (she would sit there all day b/c she was so stubborn!) until I started making her spend it with her favorite doll. I would send her to the time out chair, and her doll to the corner. Seeing her doll being punished along with her gave her incentive to not misbehave.

    • 3

      After Time Out, hug both the child and the toy and let the child hug the toy. Tell your child that you love them and that next time they misbehave, they will both be back in Time Out.

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