Loving Your Terrible, Terrific Toddler

I've just published a new article by parenting expert Laura Markham:

Loving Your Terrible, Terrific Toddler: 14 Tips

Toddlerhood can be a maddening time for parents. But you’ll be glad to know you can reduce your child’s rebellion by giving him freedom to do his developmental work.

How much is he allowed to explore? To set his own pace? To feel in control of his world? To discover that he’s a competent person? Can you appreciate his bids for independence without taking them as personal insults? Can you give up some control so he can develop some sense of mastery over his world?

Your baby is growing into her own person. Your challenge is to keep your sanity and keep her safe. Your best strategy is to cultivate a great relationship with her and enjoy her emerging independence. How?

1. Cultivate empathy for your child. Kids begin to develop empathy (and therefore, the ability to play well with others) as they themselves feel understood. And it’ll make you a better parent.

2. Don't force her to share. Instead, encourage taking turns. Let her put her favorite toys away before another child visits.

Read Parenting Toddlers tips 3 - 14 >