Toddler Behavior: When Your Child Is Not Listening

Had enough repeating to you kid? Are you frustrated and at the end of your parenting rope? Discover the reasons behind the child behavior and learn what you can do.

Before 2 years, refusing to obey must not be interpreted as an attitude of defiance or opposition. Toddlers repeat their actions to perfect their newfound skills. They practice their abilities with perseverance. They also pursue it for the need to exert their independence and for the simple reason they still do not fully understand the directives and what they are being asked.

Between 2 to 3 years of age, you child will start to retain instructions but needs your presence to comply with rules. Your child wants to validate his conduct and to make sure you watch him carefully.

About 3 to 4 years of age they can experience guilt, feel bad and want to mend the consequences of their nasty deeds.

Toddlers are motivated by pleasure; they do what they feel like rather then what they are told to do. Constant repeating is part of territory of being a parent. It may be tough at first, but this is the only way to get through with a toddler’s behavior. To avoid losing your sanity and composure it would be to your advantage to redirect your toddler towards another activity altogether.

Intervene According to Age

What can you do when a child throws sand at his playmate? If it is an 18-month baby who has discovered that he can throw things and that there is a reaction from his doing, take the opportunity to teach your child the impact of his gesture and reorient your child towards a game with balls. If your child is accustomed that you need to repeat several times before he reacts and stops, then you can probably let your child continue with the activity. Be sure to clearly explain briefly and firmly the danger or consequences of his deed. If he continues, he must stop altogether the activity and find a new game to play.

How many times is it necessary to repeat before removing the child from his activity? This depends on the age of your child, his comprehension and your level of frustration. It’s always better to make a change rather than lose your patience and feel tension and distress.

Rules that are clear, precise and continuously reiterated allow the child to socialize and to develop in safe environment. Bit by bit, your child will integrate the rules and learn the importance of applying them on his own. The key is to support your child through the various child development stages.