Building Confidence With Your Toddler
Toddlers are funny things. One minute they are fiercely independent and will fight tooth and nail to put on their own shoes and socks (usually when you are running late). The next they need loads of reassurance that they can achieve a task or activity.
Why?????? Well a number of factors.......
- Toddlers are constantly learning and experiencing new things, so naturally they want to get their desired result or outcome.
- They want your attention and they want to do things with you.
- Because they are toddlers. They can be as unpredictable as they like! They make their own rules and then change them.
So what can you do to build your toddlers confidence?
- Praise all positive efforts. Not just with words; use the tone of your voice, gestures and facial expressions. Be enthusiastic and create a level of excitement when your toddler comes near to achieving their goal.
- Use positives rather than negatives. If they give an incorrect answer to a question, say something to the effect of, “That was a very good try”, and then give them the right answer.
- Let them develop at their own pace, don’t try to rush them and don’t be drawn into the competitive mummy trap.
- Be consistent with routine and discipline Toddlers need to know what is expected of them. It makes them feel secure and stops confusion.
- And obviously lots of cuddles and time with mummy and daddy.
