Toddlers can be quite the handful, especially for new parents. Between the ages of 2 and 4, children often go through the phase of testing boundaries to see what they can and cannot get away with. This is normal and does not mean that the child is inherently bad or naughty. Discipline techniques for toddlers vary from source to source but there are a few ideas to keep in mind to make the process easier
Have direct consequences and enforce them. If it’s against the rules to throw toys and the consequence is that the toy is taken away, then the toy should be taken away as soon as the rule is broken. Even if the toddler throws a fit the parent should not go back on the rules and return the toy. Otherwise the toddler will not learn that actions have consequences and will assume that they can break the rules as long as they scream loud enough.
Offer positive consequences for good behavior in order to increase better discipline. It can be something as simple as a fancy sticker or a piece of candy or a smiley face on a chalkboard. A classroom favorite is to use a marble jar where marbles get added to the jar for good behavior (and possible subtracted for bad behavior). When the jar is filled then the toddler receives a special treat, maybe a coveted toy or a trip to Chuck E. Cheese. Positive consequences have been proven to yield good results when it comes to disciplining toddlers because it shows children that good behavior leads to good results.
Remember to show children lots of love and attention. Toddlers who feel they are ignored often have more discipline problems than children who spend a lot of time with parents. Even a simple change such as eating dinner together every night and engaging in conversation with children during and after dinner every night can lead to more positive behavior. Talking and playing with toddlers also gives them better social skills and teaches them proper speech and grammar habits so spending time with them really kills two birds with one stone. Showing love and explaining that rules are for safety and talking with your toddler about them is a great way to have a better disciplined child.
