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What is Normal Toddler Behavior?
Toddler behavior can be very confusing and a very difficult subject to get your head around. Almost all toddlers go through the "terrible two’s." This is most certainly a time when they will keep you on your toes.
This phase is completely natural and has nothing to do with your child being bad. Your child will probably start to exhibit this more outgoing behavior sometime in their second year, but you can expect it any time after your baby turns 1.
Testing Your Limits
Many toddlers have temper tantrums and mood changes on a regular basis. By the age of two, they are learning more about their emotions and how to use them. Toddler will become negative and say no when you ask them to do something. Part of this is because they are copying what they hear, which is you as a parent saying 'no' all the time as they get into things.
This is also a time when your child is pushing the boundaries and seeing how far they can go. All children have to learn how far they can push you. Unless they test these limits there is no other way for them to find out.
While you may be tempted to give into your child every time they pitch a fit, this is a time when it's important that you be firm and consistent. You should set boundaries that are appropriate for your child's age.
Frustration
Young children do not have very good communication or language skills at their age. This can cause them to become frustrated, which may lead to temper tantrums. When your child doesn’t get what they want they might start hitting and biting. This doesn't mean their behavior is appropriate, and you should correct your child when they are doing something that is wrong.
This behavior can be very worrisome for parents. However, knowing it’s a normal phase that every child will go through makes it easier to cope with. Remember, your child isn’t being naughty for the sake of being naughty; they're just growing up and exploring their world.
Make sure that you set clear limits, and ensure that you don’t give into their every demand. However, you should encourage your child to ask questions. Curiosity is very important for your child’s future and is how they learn about their world.
Being Possessive
Many toddlers are very possessive over their belongings, which is also perfectly normal. They are starting to pay attention to things that belong to them and understand the idea of ownership.
When a toddler knows that something is theirs, they will be able to share it because they know it belongs to them and they will get it back. Sharing is something that normally comes naturally. If not, you may have to work with your baby to teach the concept of sharing and understanding that the things they share will come back.
Going through the "terrible two's" with your baby can be a challenging time. While it may be frustrating at times, remember, this phase only happens once and you should join in as your baby explores and gets better acquainted with the world around them.
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