Instead of labeling a child’s action, learn to nip the behavior in the bud by disallowing it nonchalantly. If your child throws a ball at your face, try not to get annoyed. He doesn’t do it because he dislikes you, and he’s not a bad child. He is asking you (toddler-style) for the limits that he needs and may not be getting.

Since we are the adults in charge, we are the only ones capable of protecting our relationship from being one of resentment, dishonesty, distrust, dislike. This is why I believe in giving boundaries to prevent the annoyance factor. Meaning, whenever possible, we don’t give children the freedom to irritate us through their behavior. (Yes,

and don’t have to take them on… I can be a sounding board for her and gently and firmly follow through and guide her where she needs to go. With this change in perception, I no longer

The manner in which we give directions will determine whether or not our children follow them.

Expecting the madness makes it far easier to keep our cool.

Children will sometimes persistently push limits when they have internalized feelings and stress that they need to release.

Deciding between two options is usually all a toddler needs, as long as the question is an easy one.

Just talk to your child.

There is a lack of recognition of the healthy need toddlers have to express their burgeoning will by resisting whatever their parents want, as well as their need to release intense feelings.