16 Strategies for Navigating the Toddler Phase

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It feels like just yesterday you were counting tiny fingers and toes or searching the internet for colic cures, and now you’re dealing with a spirited little human who has very strong opinions about everything. Suddenly, pointing, demanding, and the classic tantrum—complete with flailing and howling—are part of your daily routine. You might find yourself resorting to negotiations, bribery, or sneaking off to snack on chocolate in secret. Parenting in this phase can feel like a wild ride, and you may wonder why all the parenting advice focuses on newborns when you really need a how-to guide for your toddler. Looking back, those early days might even seem like a breeze (even if they were anything but).

So, when you finally carve out a moment for a bath—or at least a quick shower while keeping one eye on your child—remember to use the good soap. You deserve a treat. The sleepless nights, endless feedings, and diaper changes may be behind you, but now you’re faced with the delightful chaos that is toddlerhood. Keep reminding yourself that it’s perfectly normal when your two-year-old screams for not being allowed to sip on your drink!

Toddlers are notorious for their whims. One minute they’re begging for cheese, only to reject it in favor of a strawberry—before throwing it to the floor and demanding the cheese again, but only if it’s a different kind presented on a specific plate. It’s like living with a tiny diva who has more demands than a rock star.

On particularly trying days, you might feel like dropping them off at the fire station just for a couple of hours. Their cuteness, however, is a crucial survival trait that keeps you from doing just that. Here are some tips to help you through this exhilarating phase:

1. Secure the Toilet Lid: Seriously, invest in a clamp. Ignoring this advice could lead to unfortunate mishaps, like my friend Mia’s daughter tossing her jewelry box into the toilet in seconds. Not cute.
2. Cat Food is Okay: If they munch on cat food, don’t panic. Little ones are surprisingly resilient. My buddy Jamie’s daughter once ate a dead lizard and survived to tell the tale!
3. Water Works Wonders: As SARK says, “If they’re crabby, put them in water.” It really works; I’ve tried it countless times.
4. Play-Doh Is Your Ally: Embrace it, but don’t fight the urge for them to eat it. Spoiler alert: they will!
5. Physical Play is Key: Like dogs, toddlers need to burn off energy. If you can, get them a gentle dog to play with in the yard!
6. Bizarre Eating Habits: Don’t stress if they eat nothing but crackers for days. I lived on ramen and grilled cheese for years, and I turned out just fine.
7. They’re Not Really Running Away: When they dash off, it’s usually just a game. They’ll circle back to you for a hug before you know it.
8. Messes Happen: Embrace the chaos! All toddlers seem a bit deranged at times. Remember, every family has their quirks.
9. You Shape Their World: They believe what you tell them. Use that power wisely, but be gentle with their innocence.
10. Foster Positivity: Build a sense of safety and possibility in their lives. It’s one of the most important things you can do as a parent.
11. Avoid Comparisons: Every child is unique, especially at this age. It’s not worth the stress.
12. Development is Unpredictable: Milestones vary widely. Celebrate your child’s progress, no matter how different it looks from others.
13. Respect Their Pace: Forcing milestones can lead to frustration. Let them develop at their own speed.
14. Connect with Other Parents: They’ll be your lifeline when plans go awry, and you’ll appreciate adult conversation amidst the chaos.
15. Savor the Moment: Use that nice soap and enjoy the chocolate you’ve hidden away. Parenting can be bizarre, but find joy in the madness.
16. Learn Together: As your child learns to walk, remember you’re also learning to be a parent. It’s a messy, sometimes painful, but ultimately rewarding journey.

In the end, there will be days of joy and laughter that remind you it’s all worth it. You’ve got this!

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Summary

Parenting through the toddler years can be chaotic and challenging, but it’s also filled with moments of joy and discovery. From handling bizarre eating habits to navigating daily tantrums, these strategies will help you keep your sanity while fostering a positive environment for your little one.