Hi °C | Lo °C • Speak in 'Toddler-ese' – use short phrases, repetition and mirror – a bit – of your child's feelings (with your tone of voice and gesture).
• Use the "Fast Food Rule" – you talk to a toddler (or anyone) who's upset and always repeat his feelings first.
• Reward your toddler for "green light" behaviour every time you see him being good. If you're using a lot of time-outs, says Karp, there are not enough time-ins (attention, praise, rewards).
• Teach patience: If your toddler asks for something, agree to the request (if reasonable) but then pause for five, 10, or 15 seconds before giving it to them.
• Get some help. Karp believes it's uncivilised to be raising children without some assistance from family members or friends. Don't try to be Super Mum or Dad. Ask for help.
Irish Independent
