Seven Reasons Why the Terrible Twos Are Preferable to Infancy

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As I navigate the challenges of the terrible twos, it becomes increasingly clear that the tantrums, mood swings, and assertiveness of my toddler can be more manageable than the early days of parenthood filled with sleepless nights and constant diaper changes. Here are seven reasons why I find this stage of development to be a relief compared to handling a newborn:

1. Resilience to Falls: Toddlers are surprisingly sturdy compared to infants. For example, my little one, Max, recently tumbled down a few steps. While he did shed a tear, it was primarily due to a broken cookie rather than the fall itself. Their ability to bounce back is reassuring.
2. Improved Communication: While my toddler may not always heed my instructions, he is starting to express his desires clearly. Questions like, “Are you hungry?” receive articulate answers, which alleviates the constant guessing game that comes with caring for an infant.
3. Nighttime Rest: Bedtime can lead to meltdowns, but once the chaos subsides and the countless bedtime stories are told, both Max and I enjoy a solid night’s sleep. This is a stark contrast to the fragmented sleep often experienced with a newborn.
4. Increased Independence: With a toddler, I have the luxury of observing from a distance while he plays at the park. Although he may not always allow me to relax, I appreciate having the choice to be less hands-on compared to the constant supervision required for an infant.
5. Helpful Contributions: Max is learning to help in small ways, such as throwing away his own diaper or putting away his toys, albeit with a gentle reminder. This is a welcome change from the total dependence of a baby, who requires constant care and attention.
6. Lower Anxiety Levels: With infants, the worry over their fragile immune systems and vulnerability can be overwhelming. Toddlers, on the other hand, get sick, recover, and often recover again, which creates a sense of resilience and lessens parental anxiety.
7. Emerging Personality: There is a vibrant personality developing in my toddler. Max loves to pretend he’s asleep for back rubs, dances to music, and even offers praise like “Good job, Mommy!” when he’s pleased. This playful interaction creates a joyful bond that is unique to this stage.

While I may occasionally find myself hastily exiting public spaces with a screaming toddler in tow, or justifying an extra glass of wine after a long day, the positives of this phase—such as better sleep, helpful assistance, and engaging conversations—definitely outweigh the chaos. I mean, it could always be worse; I could be managing the demands of a newborn.

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Summary

In summary, while the terrible twos come with their own set of challenges, they present several advantages over the infancy stage, including increased resilience, improved communication, and a budding personality. These factors make the experience of parenting a toddler more enjoyable and less anxiety-inducing than caring for a delicate newborn.