We’ve all heard of the terrible twos but if you haven’t here’s a little background for you. The toddler years are a time of great change for our little ones. They’re finding their feet, they’re learning to babble and talk and they desperately want their independence in a safe environment. This shows itself through frustration at not being able to do everything they want to do and not understanding why.
I’ve collated 66 toddler woes with suggestions for solving them but as we all know all children are unique so what works for one, may not work for another.
What Are The ‘Terrible Twos’?
The terrible twos is a developmental stage in a child’s life which typically happens around a child’s second birthday. The toddler wants increased independence and to explore the world around them and their personality starts to shine through. It is a normal part to a child’s development but can be quite challenging for parents due to some of the behaviours which are exhibited:
- Temper Tantrums – These can be loud where the child may lash out expressing their frustration.
- Defiance – “No!” may become their favourite word.
- Independence – Toddlers want to be more independent and this can lead to struggle between a toddler’s desire to be independent and a parent’s wish that they stay safe.
- Exploration – They may have an increased curiosity and desire to explore their environment.
- Communication Challenges – Limited language skills may lead to frustration from your toddler as they try to get their message across to others.
- Testing Boundaries – Toddlers may test boundaries to understand the rules and limits set by their parents.
Here are 66 Toddler Woes with Possible Solutions:
- Sleep Troubles:
- Problem: Toddlers resisting bedtime.
- Solution: Create a consistent bedtime routine.
- Picky Eating:
- Problem: Toddler refusing to eat certain foods.
- Solution: Introduce new foods gradually and make mealtime fun.
- Tantrums:
- Problem: Toddlers having frequent tantrums.
- Solution: Teach emotional regulation through simple communication.
- Toilet Training:
- Problem: Difficulty in potty training.
- Solution: Use positive reinforcement and be patient.
- Safety Concerns:
- Problem: Constant worry about child safety.
- Solution: Childproof the home and supervise closely.
- Sibling Rivalry:
- Problem: Jealousy or rivalry between siblings.
- Solution: Encourage positive interactions and praise cooperation.
- Communication Challenges:
- Problem: Limited verbal communication skills.
- Solution: Encourage language development through play and reading.
- Limiting Screen Time:
- Problem: Toddlers wanting excessive screen time.
- Solution: Set clear limits and offer alternative activities.
- Transitioning to a Big Bed:
- Problem: Moving from a cot to a bed.
- Solution: Make the transition gradual and exciting.
- Morning Rush:
- Problem: Difficulty getting ready in the morning.
- Solution: Create a visual schedule and involve the toddler in the routine.
- Sharing Issues:
- Problem: Refusal to share toys or belongings.
- Solution: Teach the concept of sharing through playdates and positive reinforcement.
- Handling Aggression:
- Problem: Toddlers expressing aggression.
- Solution: Teach alternative ways to express frustration, like using words.
- Teething Troubles:
- Problem: Discomfort and irritability during teething.
- Solution: Provide teething toys and offer soothing remedies.
- Fears and Nightmares:
- Problem: Fear of the dark or nightmares.
- Solution: Use a nightlight and reassure the child before bedtime.
- Travel Challenges:
- Problem: Difficulty managing toddlers during travel.
- Solution: Pack familiar items, plan for breaks, and keep them engaged.
- Resistance to Dressing:
- Problem: Refusing to get dressed.
- Solution: Let them choose their clothes and make it a game.
- Inconsistent Napping:
- Problem: Inconsistent nap schedule.
- Solution: Establish a regular nap routine and environment.
- Unwanted Behaviours:
- Problem: Toddlers engaging in undesirable behaviours.
- Solution: Consistently apply positive discipline techniques.
- Separation Anxiety:
- Problem: Difficulty being apart from parents.
- Solution: Gradually introduce short separations and reassure them.
- Difficulty with Shoes:
- Problem: Struggling with putting on shoes.
- Solution: Choose easy-to-wear shoes and practise with them.
- Overstimulation:
- Problem: Getting overwhelmed in stimulating environments.
- Solution: Provide a quiet space for breaks and limit intense activities.
- Lack of Independence:
- Problem: Wanting to do everything independently.
- Solution: Allow them to make simple choices to foster independence.
- Messy Eating:
- Problem: Messy eating habits.
- Solution: Use spill-proof dishes and involve them in cleaning up.
- Lack of Patience:
- Problem: Impatience during activities.
- Solution: Teach patience through simple games and activities.
- Unsettled Bedtime Routine:
- Problem: Disruptions in the bedtime routine.
- Solution: Stick to a consistent routine for better sleep.
- Running Away:
- Problem: Toddlers trying to run away.
- Solution: Use safety harnesses or reins in crowded places and teach the concept of staying close.
- Germ Concerns:
- Problem: Worry about toddlers getting sick.
- Solution: Teach basic hygiene practices and encourage handwashing.
- Resistance to Haircuts:
- Problem: Fear or resistance during haircuts.
- Solution: Make it a positive experience, perhaps by watching a favourite show.
- Difficulty in Sharing Attention:
- Problem: Jealousy when attention is given to others.
- Solution: Set aside special one-on-one time with each child.
- Difficulty with Buttons and Zippers:
- Problem: Struggling with clothing fasteners.
- Solution: Choose clothes with simple closures and practice with them.
- Handling Aggressive Play:
- Problem: Engaging in rough or aggressive play.
- Solution: Teach gentle play and intervene when needed.
- Short Attention Span:
- Problem: Short attention span during activities.
- Solution: Keep activities short and engaging. Toddlers don’t have long attention spans so don’t place too high expectations on them.
- Fear of Bath Time:
- Problem: Fear or resistance during bath time.
- Solution: Make bath time fun with toys and bubbles.
- Difficulty with Brushing Teeth:
- Problem: Resistance to tooth brushing.
- Solution: Use a fun toothbrush and turn it into a game.
- Dislike for Certain Textures:
- Problem: Disliking certain textures of food or clothing.
- Solution: Gradually introduce textures through play and exposure.
- Transitioning to Solid Foods:
- Problem: Difficulty transitioning to solid foods.
- Solution: Introduce small, soft pieces gradually and offer a variety.
- Stubbornness:
- Problem: Stubborn behaviour during decision-making.
- Solution: Offer choices within acceptable limits to empower decision-making.
- Difficulty with Sippy Cups:
- Problem: Struggling with using a sippy cup.
- Solution: Choose spill-proof cups and practise with them.
- Difficulty with Fine Motor Skills:
- Problem: Struggling with fine motor skills.
- Solution: Provide activities that encourage fine motor development.
- Overuse of Dummies:
- Problem: Overreliance on dummies.
- Solution: Gradually wean them off the dummy and provide comfort alternatives.
- Difficulty with Stairs:
- Problem: Fear or difficulty with stairs.
- Solution: Supervise closely and teach stair safety.
- Night-time Waking:
- Problem: Waking up frequently at night.
- Solution: Ensure a comfortable sleep environment and establish a bedtime routine.
- Overcoming Fear of Animals:
- Problem: Fear of animals or pets.
- Solution: Introduce them to animals gradually in a controlled environment.
- Uncomfortable Car Rides:
- Problem: Discomfort or fussiness during car rides.
- Solution: Use comfortable car seats and provide entertainment.
- Difficulty with Sticker Peeling:
- Problem: Struggling to peel stickers independently.
- Solution: Use easy-peel stickers and practise together.
- Overcoming Fear of Water:
- Problem: Fear of water during baths or swimming.
- Solution: Gradual exposure to water through play and positive experiences.
- Fear of the Dark:
- Problem: Fear of darkness at bedtime.
- Solution: Use a nightlight and provide comfort objects.
- Overuse of Thumb Sucking:
- Problem: Excessive thumb sucking.
- Solution: Use positive reinforcement and gradually discourage the habit.
- Difficulty with Buttons on Clothing:
- Problem: Struggling with buttoning clothing.
- Solution: Choose clothes with easy closures and practise together.
- Overcoming Fear of Dentist Visits:
- Problem: Fear or resistance during dental check-ups.
- Solution: Introduce the concept of dental visits positively and visit child-friendly dentists.
- Overcoming Fear of Haircuts:
- Problem: Fear or resistance during haircuts.
- Solution: Make it a positive experience with a familiar hairdresser and a favourite toy.
- Difficulty with Colouring:
- Problem: Struggling with colouring within lines.
- Solution: Use large, easy-to-grip crayons and encourage creativity. Toddlers don’t need to be colouring within lines just yet.
- Overcoming Fear of Loud Noises:
- Problem: Fear of loud noises.
- Solution: Gradual exposure to noises with positive reinforcement.
- Difficulty with Sharing Toys:
- Problem: Refusal to share toys with others.
- Solution: Teach the importance of sharing through play and positive reinforcement.
- Overcoming Fear of Doctor Visits:
- Problem: Fear or resistance during visits to the doctor.
- Solution: Make doctor visits positive experiences and use positive reinforcement.
- Difficulty with Handling Breaks in Routine:
- Problem: Difficulty with unexpected changes in routine.
- Solution: Use visual schedules and prepare them for changes in advance.
- Overcoming Fear of Thunderstorms:
- Problem: Fear of thunderstorms.
- Solution: Provide comfort and distraction during storms, and explain the natural process.
- Difficulty with Taking Medicine:
- Problem: Refusal to take medicine.
- Solution: Use flavoured medicine and provide positive reinforcement.
- Overcoming Fear of Insects:
- Problem: Fear of insects.
- Solution: Teach about insects and their importance in a child-friendly way.
- Difficulty with Handling New Environments:
- Problem: Anxiety in new environments.
- Solution: Gradual exposure and positive reinforcement in new settings.
- Difficulty with Handling Separation:
- Problem: Difficulty being away from parents.
- Solution: Gradual separation and reassurance through short absences.
- Difficulty with Unfamiliar Faces:
- Problem: Shyness or fear of unfamiliar faces.
- Solution: Encourage social interactions through playdates and positive experiences.
- Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking:
- Problem: Fear of speaking in public.
- Solution: Encourage speaking through fun activities and positive reinforcement.
- Difficulty with Handling Disappointment:
- Problem: Difficulty coping with disappointment.
- Solution: Teach resilience through storytelling and positive guidance.
- Difficulty with Listening Skills:
- Problem: Difficulty listening and following instructions.
- Solution: Use visual cues and break instructions into smaller steps.
- Difficulty with Handling Changes in Routine:
- Problem: Resistance to changes in routine.
- Solution: Use visual schedules and prepare them for changes in advance.
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