Helping a toddler learn rules
Helping a toddler learn rules
One of the most important things a toddler will learn is to obey rules. Read up on how to teach a toddler rules.
By the YeahBaby.com editorial staff
All parents want their children to listen and obey rules. But how and when are these traits taught to children?
As early as 11 or 12 months, children are able to understand and communicate their emotions. At this early age, children are able to tell right from wrong, although this process is in it's early developments.
With this in mind, what can parents do to teach young children right and wrong, and more importantly, how to obey?
- Keep things short - Babies and young children won't understand lengthy explanations. Present one idea to make your point.
- Keep things clear - A young child will not understand that he or she can splash water in the tub only if it doesn't get all over the floor. For now, tell baby he or she cannot splash.
- Keep things specific - Telling baby that he or she isn't allowed to play in mom and dad's room is very clear. If you want to avoid "no-ing" simply introduce baby to an area where he or she is allowed play.
- Keep things consistent - There's nothing more confusing to baby than being able to do one thing one day and not the other.
- Be emotional to make your point - We never recommend yelling or shouting at your child, but simply express your frustration by admitting your anger is an effective way to set rules. Simply say, "It makes me angry when you _____."
Setting rules and boundaries is most effective if done from the start. Suddenly starting discipline at age 3 will unlikely yield results. When in doubt, discipline should be "slow and steady."
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