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Effective Discipline for Toddlers
Tips on Coping with the "No" Phase By Margorie Sims
Linda Avery, a mother of seven from Arlington, Tenn., has found an effective way of coping with 2-year-old Savannah's daily tantrums at home. Avery says she has designated a chair in her home as "the crying place."
"I tell her, 'Go to the crying place and find your happy face.' When she returns, she says with a smile, 'Happy face, Mommy.'" Through consistent visits to the crying place, she says, Savannah learns that her tantrums are not acceptable behavior. An added plus? A designated crying place removes tantrums from right underfoot, something most parents would agree is one of the most exasperating traits of the toddler years.
How do you know when to begin disciplining your toddler? Laura Hatcher, a mother of five from Brighton, Tenn., says the earlier the better. As soon as Jack, 13 months, became mobile and began getting into things, she began setting limits. "I tell him, 'No,' the first time and every time, and I don't give in until he understands," she says, adding that consistency is key. Hatcher confirms that she sees a big difference in the effect of consistent discipline as compared to when her older children were Jack's age.
"But it wasn't because they were particularly more difficult," she is quick to add. "It was only because I allowed them to get away with more when they were toddlers."
Not only is consistent discipline important, adds Miller, but a consistent routine. "We do bed time the same way every night," he says. "This enables my toddlers to behave themselves more easily than when they don't understand what is expected of them." Miller adds that he believes a snack helps his toddlers sleep better, and a bed time story gives them some important quiet time with Dad, to say nothing of a much needed break for Mom.
Although these years can prove to be exasperating, having boundaries, consistency and a plan is sure to smooth the transition of toddlerhood during this precious but exhausting season of your child's life.
