TOOLS FOR ENCOURAGING GOOD BEHAVIOUR IN TODDLERS
Toddler tantrums and other behavioral issues are common problems most parents face with their children. The good news is that with the help of an established daily routine, and some timely and positive attention, you can encourage good behavior in your toddler.
At their age, toddlers start exhibiting independence and want things to be done their way. This may lead them to throw tantrums, or to behave inappropriately, which can be frustrating for parents. With the use of these simple tips, you can encourage good behavior in your children, and also help them boost their self-confidence.
EXPRESS YOUR LOVE
Your toddler is too young to understand the hard work you are putting in to give him a good life. He only identifies the language of love, so express your love through hugs, kisses, and by spending quality time with him. This will infuse positive energy in him, and increase his confidence levels, making him feel important.
PRAISE YOUR CHILD
You must praise or give constructive feedback to your toddler every time he does something good, or behaves appropriately. A simple appreciative comment like, “I liked that you put all your toys in the bin after playing with them. Good boy!” will go a long way in encouraging positive behavior in your toddler.
SET YOUR EXPECTATIONS
Rather than expressing anger at your toddler for not accomplishing a deed or behavior as per your expectation, act as if you are surprised why he couldn’t do it. If you lose temper, he too is likely to react aggressively. Let him know how you expect him to behave in particular situations, and give him the reasons for the same. In case you are unable to comprehend what he is communicating, be patient and request him to explain his viewpoint again. Role plays are a great way of making your toddler understand the importance of good behavior.
TREAT THEM AT PAR
While talking to your toddler, sitting with him on the bed or kneeling down to his height will make you less intimidating to him, and he will feel comfortable connecting with you. This is a very powerful tool to communicate with a child.
LISTEN ACTIVELY
Try not to be judgmental, or to react inappropriately when your child misbehaves. Listen to what he has to say and empathize with his situation in a subtle manner. If you don’t understand what he is communicating, you can request him to repeat this way, “Sorry, I didn’t get what you are saying. Can you please explain again?”
INSTILLING A SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY
Sometimes making a toddler responsible for a task can teach him the importance of good behaviour and discipline. You could explain to him the reward for finishing a task properly, and also mildly put forward the consequences for unacceptable behavior.
BE FIRM
Set boundaries for misbehavior in your toddler. Do not give in if your child starts whining or complaining. This will give him a wrong signal that his behavior is accepted, and he might behave in the same manner each time he wants to get something done. At the same time, make sure you say ‘no’ only when it is absolutely essential. Else, do not restrict him – let him explore!
SET A ROUTINE
A consistent daily routine will ensure that your child will learn the importance of discipline and good behavior. Schedule your child’s activities to keep him busy throughout the day. Teach him, play with him and indulge in various other activities every day to build a structured routine. You must also make sure that the routine does not become mundane, and that your child enjoys following it.
LAUGH WITH YOUR TODDLER
Laughing with your child, teasing him light-heartedly or having fun together will disperse the tension and may prevent any likely conflicts.
Encouraging positive behavior in toddlers can be challenging, but it will have many benefits for you and your little one in the long run. Positive attention coupled with setting firm expectations and timely goals can set them on the right behavioral track.