Achieving obedience and cooperation from your toddler can be a challenge. Toddlerhood is a stage where kids explore their independence and test limits. During this phase, parents start to see behavioral issues such as tantrums, defiance, and disobedience. While it can be frustrating to deal with these behaviors, there are things that you can do to encourage your toddler to listen and cooperate. Here are ten helpful parenting tips to consider:
Be clear and concise when giving directions
Toddlers are still very young to understand complicated directions. To encourage your little one to listen and cooperate, it is best to be clear and concise when communicating what you want them to do. Make your instructions as short as possible and use simple language. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that they might not be familiar with.
For instance, instead of saying, “Please put your shoes away and come here so we can go outside,” try “Put your shoes away and come to me.”
Get down to their level
When giving directions or talking to your toddler, getting down to their level is important. This helps them feel more comfortable and secure. It also makes it easier for them to focus on what you are saying.
Try kneeling down or squatting instead of standing above them. This will help get their attention and make sure they are listening to you.
Make eye contact
Make sure to maintain eye contact with your toddler when speaking to them. This will help hold their attention and let them know that you are serious about what you are saying.
Use a calm and firm tone
It is important to use a calm and firm tone when giving directions to your toddler. Yelling or raising your voice will only upset and scare them, which will make it harder for them to listen to you. Instead, try speaking in a slow and steady voice. This will let them know that you are in control and help them feel more comfortable.
Give them a choice
Giving your toddler a choice can be a helpful way to get them to cooperate. For instance, you can ask them if they want to put their shoes on before or after brushing their teeth. This will make them feel like they have some control over the situation and are more likely to listen to you.
Use positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a great way to encourage your toddler to listen and cooperate. Try praising them when they do what you ask or give them a small treat as a reward. This will let them know that they are doing something right and motivate them to keep listening to you.
Avoid power struggles
Power struggles are common between parents and toddlers. They often happen when a child doesn’t want to do what they are told or when they are trying to test limits. These struggles can be frustrating and exhausting for both parties. It is vital to avoid getting caught up in them.
If you find yourself in a power struggle, try to take a step back and stay calm. This will diffuse the situation and make it easier for you to reason with your toddler.
Set limits
It is important to set limits with your toddler. This will help them know what behavior is acceptable and what is not. Try to be consistent with your rules and expectations. This will make it easier for them to understand what you expect from them.
Give them time to adjust
Change can be hard for toddlers. If you are introducing a new rule or expectation, give them some time to adjust. This will help them feel more comfortable and less resistant to the change.
Be patient
Parenting a toddler can be challenging. It is important to be patient with yourself and your child. Remember that they are still learning and growing. They will make mistakes and have tantrums. It is all part of the process.
Try to take a deep breath and stay calm when things get tough. This will help you stay focused and better able to handle the situation.
Getting toddlers to listen and cooperate is no easy task. But using these tips can make it a little easier. With patience and practice, you will be able to get your toddler to listen and cooperate more often.
At Akers Academy, we ensure that your toddler gets the best care and learning opportunities possible. The students in our Toddlers Program are energetic, fascinated by the world around them, and always on the go! Your child is learning with all five senses and relies on self-discovery to recognize unique boundaries and independence. Visit our website to learn more!
