- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- preschoolers today articles
- preschoolers today q&a
- children today articles
- children today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Little Mr. Bossy
Tips for Taming the Demanding Toddler
By Jacqueline Bodnar
Many times, when families are dealing with difficult situations such as a death or divorce, children are given more room for doing what they want, and the rules aren't always enforced. Then, when it's time to take the reins back, it can often be a tough transition.
"Being honest with children of all ages is extremely important, as long as parents don't expect anything developmentally inappropriate from a child," Counce says. "Parents can remind children what the rules are, why there was a lapse in enforcing the rules and the consequence for breaking the rules. Telling the child that you have made a mistake is an important way to teach them that skill."
In many homes, bossy or attention-seeking behavior happens when a new baby comes into the picture. A new baby in the home can trigger a difficult time for a toddler, as the parents begin to dedicate a lot of time and attention to the baby. It's important that parents spend "time-in" with their toddler each week. A little bit of one-on-one time will go a long way when a toddler is learning to handle having a new baby in the home.
"Giving children specific choices will empower the child," Counce says. "Consistency is key. Reestablish routines and gently correct the child with appropriate time-outs when rules are broken."