Toddler Defiance

Chantal · April 14th, 2004, 12:17 AM

Whats up with this?!?!? Kaitlyn has decided that its more fun to see Dh and I stressing out over things she is doing. For example, Kaitlyn has decided that every night will be a total and complete meltdown opportunity for her. We havent changed the routine - and bed time is always predictable and structured.

Its just so frustrating... Also - she is waking early every morning and is determined that she MUST come to bed with DH and I. We dont like this habit and have tried pretty much everything to deter her... the only thing that worked for a few days, was to tell her that she couldnt come into the room until DH's alarm clock went off. Like I said, this worked for a few days only.

I know Toddlers are meant to be challenging... but when you have always had a child that adapts well, is happy and funloving -- and now you have a crabby, defiant little creature.... I wonder if I have done something wrong.... *sigh*

KimInCanada · April 14th, 2004, 10:56 AM

I know defiance!! Some days I think Troy invented the word! LOL Every day is a new challenge for me! LOL

I'm sorry you are going through this with Kaitlyn. One thing to remember, you've done nothing wrong and it's not your fault.
I think maybe she's testing you and exploring what buttons she can push, and what she can and can't get away with. This is a stage or phase that our toddlers go through....
I think the key is to be firm, consistant and remember to follow through. Have you tried rewarding her for good behaviour, maybe?

Maybe others have more suggestions....

cimberdog · April 14th, 2004, 11:53 AM

I know it doesn't help, but our little sweet Sam has us scratching our heads these days. Same situation - always been adaptable, fun-loving, happy, sweet....And now he's whiny, needy, throws tantrums and cries and cries and cries when redirected or told he cannot do something and generally not a whole lot of fun. I was beginning to think something is wrong with him! But, I think it's boredom and a phase, which will hopefully pass soon.

April 14th, 2004, 12:17 AM	#1
Chantal . Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 3,787	Toddler Defiance Whats up with this?!?!? Kaitlyn has decided that its more fun to see Dh and I stressing out over things she is doing. For example, Kaitlyn has decided that every night will be a total and complete meltdown opportunity for her. We havent changed the routine - and bed time is always predictable and structured. Its just so frustrating... Also - she is waking early every morning and is determined that she MUST come to bed with DH and I. We dont like this habit and have tried pretty much everything to deter her... the only thing that worked for a few days, was to tell her that she couldnt come into the room until DH's alarm clock went off. Like I said, this worked for a few days only. I know Toddlers are meant to be challenging... but when you have always had a child that adapts well, is happy and funloving -- and now you have a crabby, defiant little creature.... I wonder if I have done something wrong.... sigh __________________ Journal

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April 14th, 2004, 10:56 AM	#2
KimInCanada Registered but not Subscribed Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Hamilton Ontario Posts: 672	I know defiance!! Some days I think Troy invented the word! LOL Every day is a new challenge for me! LOL I'm sorry you are going through this with Kaitlyn. One thing to remember, you've done nothing wrong and it's not your fault. I think maybe she's testing you and exploring what buttons she can push, and what she can and can't get away with. This is a stage or phase that our toddlers go through.... I think the key is to be firm, consistant and remember to follow through. Have you tried rewarding her for good behaviour, maybe? Maybe others have more suggestions....

April 14th, 2004, 11:53 AM	#3
cimberdog Registered but not Subscribed Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: Minnesota Posts: 602	I know it doesn't help, but our little sweet Sam has us scratching our heads these days. Same situation - always been adaptable, fun-loving, happy, sweet....And now he's whiny, needy, throws tantrums and cries and cries and cries when redirected or told he cannot do something and generally not a whole lot of fun. I was beginning to think something is wrong with him! But, I think it's boredom and a phase, which will hopefully pass soon.