Toddlers often insist on doing the very things that you don't want them to. As an alternative to telling them 'no' continuously, work out ways of distracting them with alternative tasks and activities to keep them occupied.
It is a good idea to allow them freedom to move around and interact with objects, by creating a couple of 'safe zones' around the house. Rooms or outdoor areas can be cleared of dangerous objects, or things that can break. In rooms, sharp corners should be padded and furniture like coffee tables should be removed. Put pillows and toys there for them to play with.
Toddlers are also fascinated by water and can be kept occupied by a bowl of soapy water and a few plastic implements.
You may also have noticed that your child is becoming more aggressive – with you and with others. Aggression displayed by toddlers from about 14 months is usually as a result of frustration, not malice. They have no empathy about hitting playmates, so it is best to be nearby to intervene when they play as a group. Toddlers will misbehave to get attention. Corporal punishment won't work, since they will not understand why they are being punished. Do not overreact to negative toddler behaviour and use praise when they are well behaved. In the mean time, realise that your toddlers testing of the limits is just another way he or she is learning about the world around them.
It is a good idea to allow them freedom to move around and interact with objects, by creating a couple of 'safe zones' around the house. Rooms or outdoor areas can be cleared of dangerous objects, or things that can break. In rooms, sharp corners should be padded and furniture like coffee tables should be removed. Put pillows and toys there for them to play with.
Toddlers are also fascinated by water and can be kept occupied by a bowl of soapy water and a few plastic implements.
You may also have noticed that your child is becoming more aggressive – with you and with others. Aggression displayed by toddlers from about 14 months is usually as a result of frustration, not malice. They have no empathy about hitting playmates, so it is best to be nearby to intervene when they play as a group. Toddlers will misbehave to get attention. Corporal punishment won't work, since they will not understand why they are being punished. Do not overreact to negative toddler behaviour and use praise when they are well behaved. In the mean time, realise that your toddlers testing of the limits is just another way he or she is learning about the world around them.
