Development
Is Your Toddler in Control?
Taking Charge of Your Tot
Many parents struggle with issues of control when it comes to handling their children. But forget about teenagers and their control issues—we're talking about really clever minds belonging to the egocentric, single-minded creatures we call toddlers.
Have you ever wondered if your child was trying to pit you against your spouse or having a tantrum to see how you would react? Dr. Ari Brown, MD, pediatrician and author of Baby 411 and Toddler 411 , and her co-author Denise Fields have come up with some great code names for toddlers, and they all have to do with the ways that your little ones try to exert their power. See if you recognize any of these:
Stormin' Normin: This toddler has a tantrum and watches her parents cave in. This is very powerful in public places.
The Negotiator: This clever toddler tries to make one-sided deals with adults.
The A Factor: This youngster will annoy Mom or Dad until he gets his way.
The Guilt Card: This toddler uses a technique that works especially well with single or working moms: "Why can't I have such and such? You're such a bad parent!"
The Sting: This little one sets up one parent to unknowingly challenge the other.
Once you realize that you've lost control and can identify the manipulation tactic being used, Dr. Brown has some advice for how to regain your parental authority.
Related Links
- Article: Month 15 Worry: Is My Biting Toddler Normal?
- Advice: Help! My 11-Month-Old is Hitting People!
- Slideshow: 10 Ways to Survive Waiting with Toddlers
- Quiz: Are You a Great Mom?
- Poll: What do you do when your child throws a tantrum?
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