#asktheexpert My baby is 25 months old she was shouting alot if we pull anything from her...?

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If your 25-month-old baby is shouting a lot and becomes upset when you try to pull or move her, it’s important to address the underlying reasons for her behavior and find strategies to manage it. Here are some steps you can take:

### **1. Understand the Behavior:**
- **Communication:** At this age, children often use shouting or crying as a way to express their feelings or frustrations. She might be trying to communicate a need or discomfort.
- **Developmental Stage:** This behavior can also be part of normal developmental phases where toddlers test boundaries and assert independence.

### **2. Assess Triggers:**
- **Identify Triggers:** Observe if there are specific situations that trigger her shouting. It could be related to certain activities, changes in routine, or unmet needs.
- **Emotional State:** Consider if she might be tired, hungry, or overstimulated.

### **3. Improve Communication:**
- **Teach Words:** Help her learn and use words to express her feelings. Encourage her to use simple phrases or words to communicate her needs.
- **Model Behavior:** Model calm and polite communication for her to emulate.

### **4. Set Clear Boundaries:**
- **Consistency:** Be consistent with rules and expectations. Set clear and simple boundaries and explain them to her.
- **Positive Reinforcement:** Reward her with praise or small rewards when she communicates calmly or follows instructions.

### **5. Offer Choices:**
- **Empowerment:** Give her choices to help her feel more in control. For example, let her choose between two activities or snacks.
- **Decision-Making:** Allowing her to make simple decisions can reduce frustration and improve behavior.

### **6. Ensure Comfort:**
- **Comfort Needs:** Make sure she is comfortable and her basic needs are met. Check for any discomfort or issues that might be causing distress.
- **Routine:** Maintain a consistent routine to provide a sense of security and predictability.

### **7. Use Distraction Techniques:**
- **Redirection:** Redirect her attention to a different activity or toy if she becomes upset. This can help diffuse the situation and shift her focus.

### **8. Seek Professional Guidance:**
- **Consult a Pediatrician:** If her behavior is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerns, consult a pediatrician or child psychologist for additional support and guidance.

### **Summary:**
- **Understand Behavior:** Identify reasons for shouting and assess triggers.
- **Improve Communication:** Teach and model calm communication.
- **Set Boundaries:** Be consistent and use positive reinforcement.
- **Offer Choices:** Empower her with decision-making opportunities.
- **Ensure Comfort:** Address basic needs and maintain routine.
- **Use Distraction:** Redirect her attention when needed.
- **Seek Professional Guidance:** Consult a professional if necessary.

Managing toddler behavior requires patience and consistency. By understanding her needs and providing appropriate support, you can help her learn to express herself more effectively and manage her emotions.