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"NO!" my toddler shouts and wiggles as I try to pull the shirt over her head for the fifth time.. Just as I get the first arm through a sleeve she manages to pull the shirt back off of her head (argh!) It was making me later and later for work every day as the struggle grew in intensity.

I knew my daughter was just trying to be independent and that she has no grasp of time or the need for us to hurry, but it was still very hard to get used to this new stage in my daughter's life. She used to laugh and giggle as I got her dressed. I'd even blow raspberries on her belly which sent her into hysterical laughter ... but even that had stopped working.

In fact, dressing is still a small struggle with my two-year-old, but I did find a few things that made it easier. If you woke her up and started dressing her in her bedroom immediately - she would balk every time. However, if I let her get up sooner, eat some cereal and watch a half hour cartoon (usually Dora or Bear in the Big Blue House) then she was more willing to let me dress her (with only minimal resistance).

I came to realize that like most of us, she now needs just a little time to get used to being awake. A little time to herself to wake up and be a happier little girl. I can understand that. I'm of absolutely no use to anyone before my morning bath and a good cup of coffee!

If your child is having a tantrum over clothing changes it might just mean that you need to alter your dressing routine. Sometimes even the simple act of letting my daughter choose between outfits helps her resist dressing a little less. Of course sometimes this backfires and she wants to carry the chosen outfit around instead of wearing it - and then I still need to give her some time before she'll cooperate with dressing!

Altering your routine may mean a little less sleeping in for you (sorry), but I find that the reward of less time spent struggling to get on a simple shirt - has been SO worth it!

Learn more about this author, Suzanne Wesley.
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