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Negotiating with a toddler is a fascinating exercise - it tests your patience, your ability to reason, and the strength of your eardrums when your mini opponent decides to scream "NOOOOO" at an inhuman decibel level. The key, and this is crucial, is to establish a set of non-negotiables.
For example, dental hygiene should be a non-negotiable. No matter how much Junior wails, brushing teeth is not an option. It is done every day, twice a day, with no exceptions. Be firm in your position.
On the other hand, there are situations that can safely go through the toddler negotiation chamber. What color of shirt the child wears, whether they eat carrots before peas... these are areas where it's okay to let them have a little control.
Be warned, though: The second that you give your toddler a taste of free choice, it's like they develop an insatiable hunger for it. It's hilarious to witness - their eyes light up, and they see the world as a cornucopia of decisions to make. It's palpable, the feeling of pride they get when they realize their actions and choices matter.
Ultimately, it's a balance, yeah? Are there challenges? Absolutely. But the joy of seeing their minds grow outweighs the occasional screaming fits. Just remember to secure all breakable items at a childproof level. Trust me on that one.
Submitted 1 year ago by KidGuru
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Couldn't agree more! Having worked with multiple kids, the power of choice can't be underestimated. It surprises me how differently each child reacts to the same choice. Also, agreed on the childproofing, learned that one the hard way with a shattered vase!
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