If you're a parent to a toddler, you have likely experienced one or all of the following:
- Daily meltdowns
- Clingy behavior
- Not following instructions
We've all been there. Over on my Instagram page @thriving.toddler, here are the top three questions I get about toddler behavior and my answers:
My toddler has daily meltdowns, HELP!
How do I get my toddler to listen to me?
No matter how old your child is, connection creates cooperation. If your child feels connected to you, then he is more likely to listen. Here are my top three ways to promote cooperation.
Get to the child's level — that means eye to eye. Make sure you have his attention. And if that means getting close and making sure you're eye to eye with him, you're definitely likely to get your desired response.
Point out when your child is doing a good job of listening. How many times have you pointed out that you appreciate that your child followed your instructions the first time? How does he know you are pleased with him? The more you point out the good, the good gets better. This is true for any behavior you want to increase.
Set up your environment for an easy transition. It’s likely your toddler is so immersed in what he is playing with that he doesn't hear you, or simply, doesn’t want to transition away from building with those fancy Magna-Tiles. Use a timer and give as many time warnings (e.g. three more minutes, two more minutes, one more minute) as possible and have the child transition to a different activity that is just as fun or neutral.
There you have it — the top three questions I get from parents with toddlers. If there's one thing I want parents with toddlers to do, it's to pay close attention to good behaviors and encourage more of them by acknowledging the good.
