How to Discipline Toddlers

When toddlers exhibit behaviors such as hitting, kicking, spitting and biting, parents must step in to teach them appropriate ways to channel their feelings of anger and frustration. Learn how to discipline your toddler by using these simple techniques.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Model acceptable ways to handle stressful situations. If toddlers frequently witness parents “losing it” every time they are angry, it sends the underlying message that behaving in that manner is acceptable.

2. Never bribe your child. Giving your toddler a cookie or a favorite toy as an incentive to get him to comply is not a good idea. It will teach him to associate inappropriate behaviors with rewards and encourage his undesirable actions to continue.

3. When you’re disciplining your toddler, kneel down, look her in the eye and communicate your expectations in terms that are simple enough for her to understand.

4. Avoid telling your toddler what he can’t do, and give him clear indications of what he can do. Instead of saying, “Don’t throw the blocks,” try saying, “Use the blocks to build things.” Parents can take it a step further by sitting down with their toddler and demonstrating appropriate ways to use the blocks.

5. Focus on what your toddler is doing right instead of what she’s doing wrong. A child is always eager to please, so take the time let her know that you notice and appreciate her efforts to behave. Doing this will make your toddler feel validated, and it increases the likelihood that her positive actions will continue.

6. Have reasonable expectations of your child’s capabilities. Toddlers are curious, and they lack the ability to control their impulses. Expecting them to adhere to overly strict rules is unrealistic.

[anks]

on 7/19/2009 Thank you. that was very insightfull. everything i already knew, but lost sight of. i have a busy 3 yr old boy and it can be difficult at times.