Parenting tips for toddlers
Having a happy home gives way to having a nourished soul. Children grow to their fullest potential when we as parents take care of their physical, mental, and emotional needs in a careful manner. But how do we do it? Positive parenting, or respectful parenting, takes a different approach. It focuses on keeping ourselves calm so we can connect with our kids even when it gets difficult. Make sure that your moments of love, hugs, and kisses outnumber the times of discipline.
Children are not only innocent and curious but also optimistic and joyful and essentially happy. They are, in short, everything adults wish they could be. - Carolyn Haywood
Remember, the toddler years and all that comes with them won’t be around forever. Believe me, you’ll blink your eye and they’ll be graduating. So, here are a few parenting tips from one mom to another:
Pick your battle because you can’t win them all
If there are too many rules, your toddler will have a difficult time remembering and following them all. Saying no to everything will frustrate your child and cause them to act out. Instead, look for times it’s okay to say yes to something they want and when it is appropriate to encourage their independence. Try to find a balance between what you want them to do and what they want to do.
Give a gold star
It’s always a good thing to appreciate hard work and reward. The systems that are used in the classroom such as sticker charts can be easily re-created for younger kids. Whenever possible, encourage your child’s independence with choices like meal preference and bath time.
Introduce them to organic and sustainable alternatives
It’s easier to train a child’s mind now than when they grow older. If they are introduced to healthier and organic alternatives at this stage of childhood, they will grow up becoming conscious adults. Separating recyclable and non-recyclable trash or closing the tap while brushing or taking a short shower.
Love your Tree ❤
Teaching kids about trees is a step in an Earth-friendly direction. Planting a tree with a child teaches them about their awesome impact on the environment. Pick points that will spark interest, get creative, and help the little one in your life to learn about trees in a way that they'll remember.
A routine is a must
If you have a daily schedule, your toddler will always know what’s expected of them and when. Try to keep to the same time for going to bed, getting up, taking a bath, reading, etc. A change is always good. A mother knows best how to maneuver a child’s day. We suggest making an exciting schedule by switching up activities once in a while, for we take breaks too, right? (attach picture below)
Apple doesn’t fall far from the tree
Children are especially perceptive; they pick up on everything! Have you noticed that too? Little ears and eyes look to their parents as role models for behavior and interaction cues. Your house is a safe haven for your children, and negative talk towards themselves and towards others shouldn’t have a place in your home. Creating a happy environment, a simple and fun activity to incorporate around the dinner table or in the car to keep communication lines open will help them be positive and keep them excited.
All parents have to do is simply give their kids a daily reminder of their innate superpowers and reinforce a positive mindset. Parenting a toddler does require a lot of patience, but if you treat them with respect and give them space for a little independence, you’ll find that they’re happier and more well behaved. Don’t forget them to kiss them goodnight, even when they’re asleep!