by Chrissy Harrison

Created on: November 19, 2008   Last Updated: January 16, 2009

Always as parents we must first assess our situations before those of our children. In most cases with toddlers, they are not meaning to behave badly, they are just trying to express their own feelings in different ways due to their inability or understanding of why they are feeling the way they are or simply getting frustrated from not being understood or if they are unable to fully express such frustrations. Here are some tips and suggestions on how to figure out, or assess what is causing our children to be upset or to behave badly.

ALWAYS A REASON

Children will get upset for any reason, just like babies, toddlers will become frustrated if they are hungry, tired, in need of attention, or just plan bored. Most of the time, being prepared, and no matter where you go ensuring that your child is comfortable and fully awake, will help your child behave better. Toddlers are learning that they love to be encouraged, and to be listened to. They like to know that they are pleasing his or her parents, but also being independent and allowed to do simple things on his or her own. Toddlers especially like to know that they are behaving good, and they enjoy proper and structured focus and direction. If a child is always told no, they will more than likely continue to do it again. The same thing goes for allowing your child to get the result they want with the way they were behaving. For example, if your child throws a tantrum every time he or she wants something if you give in, they will automatically assume that this type of behavior will be the only way to get this result.

FIXING THE PROBLEM

Easing a toddlers frustrations doesn't have to be difficult. Making room for independence, and giving your child options when possible. Ensure that they are comfortable, well fed, and have a nap when possible well also help with his or her behavior. Instead of negative discipline which can sometimes seem like a good solution, use structured words, and focus your child on what is important when possible. It maybe more appropriate for toddlers to give consequences verses discipline, for example giving a child a time out can be a consequence if it fits with the behavior that it is supposed to correct. If you are in a store or on an outing and your child misbehaves, tell the child that it is inappropriate and that you will have to leave the store. If the behavior continues put your items away or ask from them to be held, then leave the store. Giving appropriate consequences like this will

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