How To Instill Confidence In Your Toddler
by Teresa, The CuteKid™ Staff|
The toddler years are years of extreme growth. A toddler begins walking, speaking, and interacting with
others and their environment. Their brain is developing at a rapid pace as they take in everything around
them.
While parenting toddler we want our children to be confident in their own abilities and not be afraid to try new things. The toddler years are a time for exploration. But their exploring often gets them in trouble and many toddlers hear the word "No," much more than they hear the word, "Yes." So as parents it is important that we provide a balance and give our child opportunities to explore within limits. Remove objects that are too tempting. Try to limit the amount of rules that you have. Don't get upset if your child dumps all of their toys, they are exploring what happens. As a basic of parenting toddlers, encourage your child about self reliant living. My youngest daughter began putting on her own shoes at about 18 months. I let her though they were often on the wrong feet. If your child wants to try climbing a difficult ladder at the playground let them. Just be there as support and in case help as needed. Praise them when they accomplish or even just try something new. Give them simple tasks to do around the house like putting spoons on the table, folding towels, helping with the cooking, or putting toys away. Toddlers feel an extreme sense of satisfaction when they accomplish tasks on their own. Their confidence grows as they realize that they are capable. Listen to your child when they are talking. Often toddlers do not speak well enough to be understood. But they know what they are saying. Give them your attention and respond by nodding your head. When you listen you instill in him the idea that what he has to say is important. As his speech improves he will continue to talk to you and share what is in his head. Help your child develop friendships with other children. If your child is an only child arrange play dates with other young children. This gives your child a chance to interact and learn important social skills. The most important thing that we can do to instill confidence in our children is too love them. Let your toddler know that you love them by providing multiple hugs and kisses. Set limits and rules and follow through. After you discipline tell your toddler that you still love them. |
