Look Out Telemarketers, My Three-Year-Old is Coming for Your Job
You know those calls you get late at night after you've had a long day of work or when you finally have a moment to yourself? You reluctantly pick up the phone even though you know what is waiting for you on the other end. Someone persistently asking you over and over again if you want something and every time you say no, you are met with asking you again if you want the service the person is selling?
That is how I feel with my three-year-old. Although instead of asking me if I want something, she is telling me she needs something and she needs it now. Everyone warned me about the terrible twos, but no one told me about the persistent and whiny threes. According to the experts these children are called "spirited."
Since you can’t hang up on your child or politely ask that they send the
information via mail, how do you deal with this type of behavior?
Keep Them Active: According to WedMd, if they are involved in a lot of activities, it helps burn off their energy and work through their emotions.
Let them Learn Through Experiencing: At Ahaparenting.com, one of their tips is to let these type of children learn for themselves instead of trying to control them. They will test the boundaries, but will eventually learn for themselves right from wrong.
Tell Them What is Happening Next: Babycenter.com explains the demanding child likes to be in the know. In other words, explain what you will be doing for that day in detail so your toddler is aware of the plan.
Be Consistent: The Becker Institute recommends when you say something to your strong-willed child, do not back down. They are smart enough to find ways around you saying no so always follow through and stand your ground.
Veer them Off Course: What I have found most helpful when my daughter is demanding something repeatedly and I can not immediately satisfy her, is to suggest something else temporarily. For example, she asks for a snack while I am helping our oldest daughter with homework. I say, how about we watch this movie for awhile and then I will get you a snack after. Surprisingly, she usually says, "Okay Mommy." Distraction buys myself time before my ultimate salesgirl returns.
Do you have tips that have worked for your spirited toddler?
