Tips to a Better Toddler: Praise Like Crazy

Most of the previous tips seems to be focusing on bad behavior.  And when all I focus on is bad behavior, my child seems to give me more and more to focus on. Is it because his self-esteem has dropped so low he thinks that is all he has to offer? Is it because he is...

Tips to a Better Toddler: Be Attentive

On days when my attention and priorities are not on my children, they act out more. It is their life’s mission to receive love, attention, and approval from me, their parent.  But when push comes to shove, they’ll settle for one out of the three....

Tips to a Better Toddler: Talk Like Steve from Blues Clues

There’s a reason kids like that show.  They like the attention he shows them.  They like the exciting tone of voice he uses.  They like the way he breaks everything down to be easy to understand for young minds. He does not yell, use sarcasm, or expect more than...

Tips to a Better Toddler: Have a Plan. Keep to the Plan.

I am the worst parent when I feel as though I have no control over my child.  I panic.  And I do not make wise choices. So I develop a plan of action for my children, and this is especially helpful in the toddler years, as they find comfort in routine and anxiety...

Tips to a Better Toddler: Be the Change

Toddlers are sponges.  Toddlers are mirrors.  Toddlers are spongy little mirrors.  (Shiny little sponges?)  They learn how to handle life by watching how the people around them handle life.  And believe me, they will not pick up on the one time you were gracious and...