When children are in their toddler years, they tend to be stubborn. Sometimes, this stubbornness is part of the child’s personality that the parents need to manage. In other cases, stubbornness is the child’s way of testing the boundaries and asserting their freedom on doing or not doing something.
It is important for guardians and parents to teach their children the different ways of dealing with stress and expressing themselves. When dealing with a stubborn child, you can discipline your stubborn child by understanding, listening to him, and remaining calm to set a good example of acceptable behavior.
Tips
Distract Him
Distracting a stubborn child is a good way of making your child not notice or simply forget that various restraints are being forced on him against his will.
Offer Treats or Toys in a Right Way
Wise parent always reserve specific beloved treats, snacks or toys for the times when they will need their little one to remain still. Just make sure that you use this strategy at the opportune time.
Dangle your bait (the treat or toy) first then reel him in by telling him that he will get it if he gets into the car or house. If you hesitate until your child is hysterical, handing him the treat will not work as you expect. Just be careful not to spoil your child so that his gets everything he wants otherwise he’ll throw a tantrum.
Never Argue, Communicate Instead
This is an important rule for dealing with a stubborn child. When your child is being stubborn or is angry, it is not the appropriate time to argue with him. It is better to communicate with him when he is quiet and ready to listen.
Observe your child and try to identify what makes him uncomfortable. Once you have, remove him from that situation as that will help calm him down. Dedication and patience are keys to controlling the situation.
Come Up With Options When Your Child Is Showing Stubborn Behavior
If your child is refusing anything you ask of them, it is time you came up with options for him to choose from. Instead of giving orders like ‘finish your food’ or ‘go to bed’, try giving him an option like ‘would you like to sing a song or hear a story before going to bed?’
That way, your child will be able to feel like their opinion is valued and matters which is very helpful when dealing with a stubborn child. Additionally, your child will have the sense of independence that they are able to make their own decisions even if it is from choices you have given.
Let Him Learn Through Experiences
The only way a child gets to know that a lit stove is hot is by touching it. So, unless there is risk of serious injury, it is best to let your child learn through experience. You should also expect your stubborn child to test your limits several times because that is how they will learn. That way, you will be in a much better position to keep calm when your child is being stubborn.