X
theAsianparent Logo
theAsianparent Logo
Product GuideSign in
  • Awards
    • Parents' Choice Awards 2023
  • Pregnancy
    • Due date calculator
    • I'm pregnant
    • Trying To Conceive
    • Labour
    • After birth
    • Baby loss
  • Parenting
    • Parent's Guide
    • Relationship & Sex
  • Child
    • Newborn
    • Baby
    • Toddler
    • Pre-Schooler
    • Kid
    • Pre-Teen & Teen
  • Feeding & Nutrition
    • Diseases-Injuries
    • Breastfeeding & Formula
    • Meal Planner
    • Health
    • Allergies & Conditions
    • Vaccinations
  • Education
    • Pre-School
    • Primary School
    • Secondary School
    • Primary School Directory
  • Lifestyle
    • Money
    • Travel & Leisure
    • Fashion
    • Home
    • Fitness
    • Contests & promotions
  • News
    • International
    • Health
    • Celebrity
    • Singapore
  • TAP Recommends
  • Shopping
  • Press Releases
  • Project Sidekicks
  • Community
  • Advertise With Us
  • Contact Us
  • Become A Contributor
  • VIP

4 Ways to Turn the Terrible Twos Into the Terrific Twos!

2 min read

Halfway through your child’s toddler years, you will start to notice how their personality starts to take shape. They may also begin communicating with you.

And despite the many exciting milestones to look forward to, you may also be worried when you encounter warnings about the terrible twos–whether it’s from articles or well-meaning friends.

But you don’t have to dread your child’s second birthday! Making these simple changes can greatly help turn the terrible twos into the terrific twos.

Maintain eye contact

4 Ways to Turn the Terrible Twos Into the Terrific Twos!

Image source: iStock

When speaking to your child or if you’re asking them to do something, it’s important do so often at eye level. This simple gesture will reassure them that you care about them and that you understand.

It also encourages them to maintain eye contact as a sign of confidence and even, good manners. This simple habit makes them feel secure but also prepares them for the future by boosting their self-esteem.

Don’t underestimate the power of touch

Touch them on the shoulder and reassure them that you love and care for them. It may be an overwhelming time for them as they are fast developing in every aspect—physically, cognitively, and emotionally.

Not only does it build the emotional bond between parent and child, but studies have also found that it constant loving and effective touch is good for a child’s brain development.

Prioritise focused attention

4 Ways to Turn the Terrible Twos Into the Terrific Twos!

Image source: iStock

At this age, they need your attention more than ever. Knowing that you’re there to guide them eases their anxiety and encourages less bad behaviour. Strive not to be distracted by other tasks or even your cellphone.

It’s been found that cellphone-distracted parenting leads to kids feeling less appreciated. Don’t let this happen by kicking the habit of being glued to your phone as early as now.

Apply gentle discipline

Remember that your child is still trying to navigate through their need for independence. It’s important for you to be firm and specific but also kind and friendly when giving instructions.

Giving them choices and rephrasing instructions can also help your little one better understand the difference between good and bad behaviour.

This article first appeared on theAsianparent Philippines

Sources: MommyEdition.com, Mom.me, Psychology Today, The Happiest Toddler on the Block by Harvey Karp, M.D.

ALSO READ: After the terrible twos and threenager years, comes the “EFFING FOURS”! 

4 Ways to Turn the Terrible Twos Into the Terrific Twos!

Partner Stories
When developmental delays happen to your child: what you can do
When developmental delays happen to your child: what you can do
The Tale of Two Digestive Systems – Young Children Vs. Adults – and What It Means for Mums
The Tale of Two Digestive Systems – Young Children Vs. Adults – and What It Means for Mums
Is Your Child Unusually Short?
Is Your Child Unusually Short?
If play is the key to learning, the playground is your child’s best classroom
If play is the key to learning, the playground is your child’s best classroom

Got a parenting concern? Read articles or ask away and get instant answers on our app. Download theAsianparent Community on iOS or Android now!

img
Written by

Bianchi Mendoza

  • Home
  • /
  • Development
  • /
  • 4 Ways to Turn the Terrible Twos Into the Terrific Twos!
Share:
  • 5 ways the "terrible twos" are actually terrific

    5 ways the "terrible twos" are actually terrific

  • 5 Ways To Survive Chinese New Year Visiting With Terrible Twos

    5 Ways To Survive Chinese New Year Visiting With Terrible Twos

  • I Try Tracy Lee's Hack for Egg Tarts and It's So Easy That Even Kids Can Make it

    I Try Tracy Lee's Hack for Egg Tarts and It's So Easy That Even Kids Can Make it

  • 5 ways the "terrible twos" are actually terrific

    5 ways the "terrible twos" are actually terrific

  • 5 Ways To Survive Chinese New Year Visiting With Terrible Twos

    5 Ways To Survive Chinese New Year Visiting With Terrible Twos

  • I Try Tracy Lee's Hack for Egg Tarts and It's So Easy That Even Kids Can Make it

    I Try Tracy Lee's Hack for Egg Tarts and It's So Easy That Even Kids Can Make it

Get advice on your pregnancy and growing baby. Sign up for our newsletter
  • Pregnancy
    • Baby
    • Education
    • Events
    • Allergies & Conditions
  • Family Occasions
    • Breastfeeding & Formula
    • Child Safety
    • Health
    • Diseases-Injuries
  • Lifestyle
    • Home
    • Money
    • Feeding & Nutrition
    • Diet & Weightloss
  • Normal Delivery
    • Cesarean Delivery
    • Behaviour
    • Secondary School
    • Formula Feeding
  • Ages & Stages
    • Latching & Concerns
    • Festivals & Holidays
    • Education
    • Pre-teen & Teen
  • More
    • TAP Community
    • Advertise With Us
    • Contact Us
    • Become a Contributor


  • Singapore flag Singapore
  • Thailand flag Thailand
  • Indonesia flag Indonesia
  • Philippines flag Philippines
  • Malaysia flag Malaysia
  • Sri-Lanka flag Sri Lanka
  • India flag India
  • Vietnam flag Vietnam
  • Australia flag Australia
  • Japan flag Japan
  • Nigeria flag Nigeria
  • Kenya flag Kenya
© Copyright theAsianparent 2023. All rights reserved
About Us|Team|Privacy Policy|Terms of Use |Sitemap HTML
  • Tools
  • Articles
  • Feed
  • Poll

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience. Learn MoreOk, Got it

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience. Learn MoreOk, Got it

theAsianparent heart icon
We’d like to send you notifications for the latest news and updates on baby care and health.