Mistakes to avoid when working with a baby

Toddlers, full of energy and eager to test their abilities, as well as their legs, can be a special challenge for parents. But even if the kids don't have an instruction manual, the adventure can be more fun if you know what common mistakes parents make and how to avoid them.

Being inconsistent

Babies feel better when they know what to expect, whether it's bathing and going to bed or the consequences of bad behavior. The more consistent and predictable things are, the more resilient and enjoyable the baby can be.

Fix it:: As much as possible, maintain a regular daily routine for your child. Consistency can be an issue when parents (or other caregivers) disagree.

If you don't know how best to respond when your child throws food on the floor or ignores bedtime, sit down with your partner to decide how you both will react in advance, and then respect him.

Too much family time

Nice to spend time with the whole family. But some parents abuse family time.

"Children love spending time alone with their parents." He notes, “One-on-one times are also fun for parents because there is no rivalry between siblings.”

Fix it:: It's easy to have one-on-one time with a toddler. Phelan recommends just sitting on the floor together and playing. Have fun before bed by reading a book together or telling stories to your child.

Too much help

Some parents step in to help a toddler who is struggling to do something. Before you do that, think about how helping your child complete a puzzle or put on a shirt is sending them the message that they can't do it alone.

"Parents who offer too much help may sabotage their young children's ability to become independent."

Fix it:: "We must teach children to endure the struggle"

At the same time, there is nothing wrong with praise and support. "Be a cheerleader", Say:" You can! “

Talking too much

Talking to toddlers is usually a great idea, but not when it's time to take control of rampant behavior.

Imagine that a mother has just said "no" to a two-year-old child's request for cookies. The child is moving. Mom explains that it's time for dinner. The child is still catching cookies. Mom takes it off and again tries to explain herself to her now crying baby. It comes and goes with growing frustration on both sides.

Fix it:: After you've told your toddler to do something, don't talk about it or make eye contact. If the child does not obey, give a brief verbal warning or count to three. If the child refuses to follow the line, give him a time-out or other immediate repercussions. There is no explanation.

Serving only baby food

Does your little one only eat chicken fingers and French fries? Are goldfish crackers the only fish he eats? As some parents realize too late, toddlers on a regular diet of foods for children with nutritional problems may resist eating anything else.

Fix it:: Invite the child to try the "adult" rate. "A large percentage of kids are willing to try a new food if they see that mom and dad like it." “If they refuse it, keep putting it on your plate. Some children have to try something a dozen times or more before it happens. "

But don't worry too much if your little one is a picky eater. “Most kids are like that”, “Children love to fight over food. If we make a lot of noise about it, it becomes much more important than it should be.”

Don't let yourself, she says, become your child's short-lived cook.

Getting rid of the crib

Baby cribs do more than just protect babies. They promote good sleep.

A baby who moves into a "real" bed too early may have trouble staying in bed or falling asleep, and may eventually crawl into bed with mom and dad.

“Some moms burn out because they have to lie with their baby every night,” “They don’t understand that they are setting the pattern.”

Fix it:: It's time to get rid of the crib when your child asks for a crib or starts to get out of bed. For most children, this occurs between the ages of 2 and 3, or when the child is about 90 cm tall.

Starting potty training too early

Some parents encourage their children to go to the toilet when they think it's time and give harsh reprimands when something goes wrong. This can lead to a power struggle.

Fix it:: “Children learn to use the toilet when they are ready”, “The process should not be rushed.”

But you can set the stage. Show your child the toilet. Explain its use. If you feel comfortable, let your child watch you use the toilet and praise him if he turns it over.

What if your child is still wearing diapers at 4 years old? "Don't worry," "No kid will go to college in diapers."

Allowing too much screen time

Toddlers who watch a lot of TV often find it difficult to learn later. And studies show that children under 2 cannot understand what is happening on TV and computer screens.

Fix it:. Keep your child busy with reading and other creative activities. Lead conversations and encourage conversation and listening. "The longer you can wait to get your child on TV, the better"

Trying to stop a tantrum

Some parents fear that an out-of-control child will make them look like ineffective parents. But all babies have tantrums. When they do, there is no point in trying to dissuade them, even if the drama is in front of a business or in a public place.

“When we are in public and dealing with a child, we feel that we are judged”, “It seems to us that a neon sign hangs over our heads saying that we are incompetent parents.”

Fix it: Parents should remember that the child matters more than the opinions of others, especially strangers.

If people stare at you or offer unwanted advice, just smile and say something like, “Do you remember what that was? Then pick up the crying baby and find a place away from prying eyes to let the tantrum run its course. Once that's done, hug your baby and get on with your day.