Hello there! 👋 If you’re a parent or caregiver of a toddler, then you know how challenging toddler behaviour can be to manage sometimes! Tantrums, defiance, and impulsivity are just a few of the behaviours that can be frustrating to deal with, but know that you are not alone. Luckily, there are positive discipline strategies that can help you turn these challenges into learning opportunities for your little one. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Toddler Behaviour 🤔

Before we get into the specific strategies, let’s take a look at why toddlers behave the way they do. Toddlers are at a stage where they are learning and discovering the world around them, but they have limited communication and problem-solving skills. This can lead to frustration and acting out as they try to express themselves and get their needs met. Understanding this can help us approach their behaviour with empathy and patience.

Illustration of a toddler confused and frustrated

Positive Discipline Strategies 🌟

1. Connect and Redirect 🤝

When a toddler is misbehaving, the first step is to connect with them. Get down to their level, make eye contact, and acknowledge their feelings. For example, “I see you’re feeling angry right now.” Once you’ve connected, redirect their behaviour to something positive. For example, if they are hitting, offer them a soft toy to hit instead. This strategy helps your toddler feel heard and understood, while also teaching them more appropriate ways to express themselves.

Illustration of a parent connecting with a toddler and redirecting their behaviour

2. Offer Choices 🤷‍♀️

Toddlers love to feel in control, so offering them choices can help reduce power struggles. However, make sure the choices you offer are ones you can live with. For example, “Would you like to wear the blue shirt or the red shirt?” This gives your toddler a sense of autonomy while also setting boundaries.

Illustration of a toddler choosing between two shirts

3. Use Positive Reinforcement 🌟

Positive reinforcement is a great way to encourage good behaviour. Instead of focusing on what your toddler is doing wrong, focus on what they are doing right. Praise them when they share, use their words, or show kindness. This helps reinforce positive behaviour and encourages more of it in the future.

Illustration of a parent praising a toddler's good behaviour

4. Create Routines and Boundaries 🕰️

Toddlers thrive on routine and boundaries. Create a consistent schedule for meals, nap time, and playtime. This helps your toddler know what to expect and can reduce anxiety and meltdowns. Set clear boundaries around behaviour and consequences. For example, “If you throw your toys, we will put them away for 5 minutes.” Consistency is key in reinforcing routines and boundaries.

Illustration of a parent creating a routine and setting boundaries for their toddler

5. Model Positive Behaviour 🌟

Toddlers learn by watching and imitating the adults around them. Model positive behaviour by showing kindness, empathy, and problem-solving skills. If you make a mistake, apologize and show how you can make it right. When your toddler sees you handling challenging situations in a positive way, they will be more likely to do the same.

Illustration of a parent modelling positive behaviour for their toddler

Final Thoughts 💭

Remember, toddler behaviour can be challenging, but by using positive discipline strategies, we can turn these challenges into learning opportunities. Connect and redirect, offer choices, use positive reinforcement, create routines and boundaries, and model positive behaviour. With patience, consistency, and empathy, we can support our little ones in their journey of learning and growth. You got this! 🌈

Illustration of a happy family playing together

And that’s it for today! We hope you learned something new, and feel free to leave a comment below with your own positive discipline strategies. Thanks for reading! 🙌