You’re Not Alone in your Toddler Trials and Tribulations
Parents tend to think that they are the only parent who ever has a toddler collapse, kicking and screaming, in the middle of a busy sidewalk. They are the only parent whose toddler ever refused to wear shoes or a coat on a snowy January day. They are the only parent whose toddler yanked down an entire candy display at the supermarket.
However, the fact is, toddlers are almost universally difficult at least some of the time. Look beyond your own “terrible two-er”, and you’ll realize you’re not alone in your toddler trials and tribulations. All parents of one- and two-years old have their share. It’s just that you’re more likely to be upset by unpleasant behavior in your own child and more likely to dismiss it in someone else’s (after all, when that other child lies kicking and screaming in the middle of the sidewalk, it’s is no reflection on you)
If reading many books, references, and articles about toddlers is not enough to persuade you that you are not the only parent who has the same experience; you might try joining a support group for parents of toddlers. Meeting with others, watching their toddlers have tantrums or refuse to get their coats on, will be very reassuring. It will also give you a chance to swap not only problems, but solutions.
Recognizing that you aren’t alone won’t make life with a toddler a breeze, but it can help you weather their storms. Reminding yourself that other people’s children have irrational moments, too is the best way to keep your perspective and your cool when you’ re dealing with your child’s moments. It may also keep you from feeling persecuted, punished, or guilty, and asking: “Why me?” or “Where did I go wrong?”
