A few weeks ago my son moved to a new room at daycare and every since it seems as if he is throwing more fits and tantrums at home. I know that there is a stigma attached to two year old children and parents must realize that all two year old’s go through a phase often referred to as the terrible twos. I never really cared for that name “terrible twos” because I feel that a child that is two years old doesn’t have the necessary skills to properly communicate their wants, needs, and emotions. I also, realize that most two year old’s are acting out because they are frustrated because they don’t know how to properly communicate. So instead of trying to tell us what they want or at least attempt to tell us what the want, they are bound and determined to throw a fit to try to get their way or to make their point clear. If you are like me, you think that your two year old is the cutest thing ever until they decide to throw a fit. I love that my two year old is able to communicate most of his wants and needs; however, when he doesn’t get his way he will stomp around, hit himself, or throw himself in the floor. As a parent, this is very frustrating and part of dealing with a two year old. It is important that you respond to your child in a positive manner to avoid further issues down the road.
Disclosure: The opinions reflected in this post are my own and are based upon my own parenting experiences.
Why Do Toddlers Throw a Fit Every Time They Hear the Word No?
If you are the parent of a two year old, you probably already realize that they are constantly in motion, always getting into things that they aren’t supposed, seem to have their mind made up, and have their own ideas of doing things. They get into something that we don’t want them to get into or they are caught doing things they aren’t supposed to, which in a toddlers eyes is very often, we are constantly telling them no. Your toddler has figured it out that you are always telling them NO and they get frustrated because it seems as if they can’t do anything that they want to do. Instead, of constantly telling them no you can give them choices.
17 comments
I think in our case, we went up to the terrible fours! Yes, it is a phase toddlers go through. As parents, we should really try our hardest not to lose it. We have to learn to listen to what they’re trying to tell us through their tantrums.
Pepper you are right that most of the tantrums last until they are closer to 4. However, after age 2 they should start happening less frequently.
This phase can definitely be difficult! It must be frustrating for them not being able to communicate their wants or needs. When my daughter has her tantrums, I walk away. I don’t want her getting the idea that it is acceptable behavior (I see way too many adults having tantrums!) But we are also experimenting with hand signals to help her communicate until she is able to verbally express herself.
Great advice Taylor, thank you for sharing what works for you and your family. 🙂
Ah yes, I’ve had my fair share of tantrums when my son was this age. He still throws tantrums every once in a while, but it’s much easier to handle now that he’s already four. 🙂
My youngest just started the tantrums. He is learning bad habits from his friends at daycare.
I think it can be a slippery slope rewarding any kind of tantrum behavior. How do you walk that back the next time? You know what I mean?
I agree Courtney, thank you for stopping by.
so glad to be DONE with this stage—The TEENS are no picnic either!!!
Nope, it seems like it is always something going on. 😉
As a mom of two grown children and grandma of 7 I’ve seen a tantrum or two. I’ve never been one to give in to unrelentless spanking; however, a firm swat to the butt or a time out to their room sure worked for me. Times and methods may differ but firm guidance is what children are lacking these days and it shows.
Oh you are so right Taylor tantrums can be difficult. Coming from an aide in childcare the thing that works for me is a time out. The child usual calms down and we can and moves on.
I think I’ve been really lucky with my first daughter and escaped the terrible twos. I have a feeling though, that my second is going to be a difficult one – thanks for sharing these great tips – I’m sure they’re going to come in real handy!
You are lucky Paul. I hope that these tips come in handy with your second child.
I’ve been at the receiving end of many tantrums though my son’s not two yet! I prefer doing my own ‘time out’ so I can clearly think about how to handle the situation. Very often, he’s just tired or frustrated, so a hug calms him down.
I know that my son seems to throw more fits when he is tired or hungry. Thank you for sharing.
I think the most important thing when trying to combat the terrible twos is to avoid the power struggles. I try to give options: Do you want a banana or an apple? Do you want these pants or these pants? Plus, taking care of the physical needs (sleep and hunger) are a must for any sanity around here!!