#asktheexpert how to reprimand my 2 year old kid . he is very stubborn

1 Answer

POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 6 m old boy1 Year ago

A. Consider the following guidelines for helping you and your child through this phase. Don’t take this normal phase too personally. By”no” your child means “Do I have to?” or “Do you mean it?” A negative response should not be confused with disrespect. Also, it is not meant to annoy you. This phase is critical to the development of independence and identity. Try to look at it with a sense of humor and amazement. Don’t punish your child for saying “no.” Punish your child for what she does, not what she says. Since saying “no” is not something you control, ignore it. If you argue with your child about saying “no,” you will probably prolong this behavior. Give your child plenty of choices. This is the best way to increase your child’s sense of freedom and control, so that she will become more cooperative. Examples of choices are letting your child choose between a shower or a bath; which book to read; which toys to take into the tub; which fruit to eat for a snack; which clothes or shoes to wear; which breakfast cereal to eat; and which game to play, whether inside or outside, in the park or in the yard. For tasks your child doesn’t like, give her a say in the matter by asking, “Do you want to do it slowly or fast?” or “Do you want me to do it, or you?” The more quickly your child gains a feeling that she is a decision maker, the sooner she will become cooperative.

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