Why do toddlers have such a hard time listening?
Tots – especially emotional tots – have trouble listening because they’re minds are so distractible. You’ll be much more successful getting your child to listen to you if you first calm him down with a minute of your best Fast Food Rule and Toddler-ese. That gives your child the clear, loving message that you understand and care about his feelings. Learning and emotion are like oil and water… they just don’t mix. Calm children learn much faster and acknowledging their feelings in Toddler-ese is the key to quick calming. Only once your tot starts to settle should you offer distraction (“Hey, look at this book.”), explanation (“It’s too hot to drink.”) or reassurance (“It’s OK, it’s OK… you’re alright”). Imagine your 18-month-old is standing at the door, having a tantrum to go outside, but it’s raining. Don’t start out by quashing his hopes by telling him why he can’t go. Instead, it’s best to first acknowledge his feelings…in his own energetic language. Repeatedly point at the door and
Tots – especially emotional tots – have trouble listening because they’re minds are so distractible. You’ll be much more successful getting your child to listen to you if you first calm him down with a minute of your best Fast Food Rule and Toddler-ese. That gives your child the clear, loving message that you understand and care about his feelings. Learning and emotion are like oil and water… they just don’t mix. Calm children learn much faster and acknowledging their feelings in Toddler-ese is the key to quick calming. Only once your tot starts to settle should you offer distraction (“Hey, look at this book.”), explanation (“It’s too hot to drink.”) or reassurance (“It’s OK, it’s OK… you’re alright”). Imagine your 18-month-old is standing at the door, having a tantrum to go outside, but it’s raining. Don’t start out by quashing his hopes by telling him why he can’t go. Instead, it’s best to first acknowledge his feelings…in his own energetic language. Repeatedly point at the door and