I want this, not that

November 13th, 2009
Parenting & Kids

Okay, I will have to agree on the “surprising” changes that occur when a child turns two. I have witnessed a lot since October came in. And even until now I notice some developmental steps and leaps that make my daughter a true Toddler Two. Yup, that’s the label I prefer to assign her at this stage. While the label “Terrible Two” seems apt, it encloses a lot of negative things which I do not really see as terrible.

I’m aware that my child is going through a lot of changes in her life. She’s become aware of many things, but she’s yet to learn how to properly deal with her feelings. I too am going through a lot of changes. When before the play-eat-sleep schedule was normally designed by yours truly, some cute ideas are now being proposed and preferred by the Little Lady. Every day compromises are made, deals are done, and rules are imposed. I am actually re-learning patience and reminding myself too often to empathize with my child.

My Toddler Two now asserts herself (quite strongly) and says “No!” when she doesn’t want it and “More, please!” and “Good!” when she likes it. She has also established her own preferences for some things. For example, she often refuses to wear a dress when she’s at home. Whenever she sees me picking out a dress after she’s taken a bath, she says “No dress! Shorts, please!” and then grabs the dress and puts it back into the cabinet. At times when we have to go out she will agree to wear a dress, but she has to be the one choose the pair of shoes that will go with the outfit.

Of course, most things are still under my marmee-ish control. But with matters such as snacks and fashion, I can let her exercise her decision-making skills. I want her to learn to decide for herself. She’ll be doing a lot of that when she grows up.

Sigh.

Possibly Related Posts:

• Let Go
• Soon-to-be Toddler Two
• Candice and the Purple Crayon
• 82 Penguins

Tags: Candice, Toddler Two, toddlers

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