Eldon Broady

How Do I Get My Toddler to Take Me Seriously?

So you took away the toys, made your most stern face, and threatened the almost unthinkable three minutes in timeout, but nothing is working. Dealing with a stubborn toddler and cantankerous behaviors like screaming or hitting can be enough to make most parents lose their minds, but the answer to working through these behaviors might be more simple than you think.

If you're struggling to get your toddler to cooperate and take you seriously, don't give up just yet! You're probably ready for some real, solid toddler advice, and fortunately, we've got you covered.

It's All About the Praise

If you want your toddler to take you seriously, you'll want to focus on positive praise instead of reinforcing negative behaviors with your reactions. Unfortunately, the more we react to negative behavior, the more we may be accidentally increasing the likelihood that it will happen again. So next time your toddler won't stop wiggling for a diaper change or refuses to stop kicking long enough for you to get pants on them, try to be intentional about providing positive praise and motivation to reinforce good behavior instead.

For example, if your toddler won't stop kicking their feet while you're trying to get them dressed, try re-directing their focus by giving them something else to do. Say, "Hey, would you mind holding your brush for me so we can comb your hair when we are done? We must keep it safe while we get dressed!" Or try providing specific rewards for good behavior, such as a new sticker for their collection.

You can also try to ignore the bad behavior (when appropriate) and immediately reinforce good behavior by giving them lots of praise when they do behave.

Where Can I Find More Toddler Advice on Discipline?

Disciplining your toddler is rough and no single parent has all the answers. However, many first-time and veteran parents agree that one of the best ways to get toddler advice on discipline issues is by consulting with other parents. Sure, your pediatrician can also provide helpful tips, but talking through common problems with other parents who are living the same struggles day in and day out is extremely helpful!

Try seeking out reputable "Toddler Advice" forums online to find valuable insight and feedback from other parents. Remember, there is strength in numbers and you will make it out of the difficult toddler years! If you need the best toddler advice, visit this website.

Author Resource:

Eldon Broady writes about a social networking app connecting women across fertility and motherhood. You can find his thoughts at the best parenting apps blog. If you need advice for baby development, visit this website.