The Terrible Twos: Fact Versus Fiction
General truth about the terrible twos:
Two-year-olds are opinionated.
Why it’s tough: Two-year-olds are opinionated. But so are sixteen-year-olds, five-year-olds, and nine-year-olds. Two-year-olds probably get the bad rap, then, because they have opinions without a shred of self-consciousness — they couldn’t care less if you’re in public when they decide it’s worth shrieking bloody murder to defend their principles.
Why it’s not so terrible: If you think about it, at least with two-year-olds, you know where you stand. They aren’t shy about letting you know what they want, which is more than you might get from a cagey teenager.
General truth about the terrible twos:
Two-year-olds have flawed reasoning.
Why it’s tough: While two-year-olds can talk (either sort of, or completely, depending on the kid), their reasoning sometimes calls for a code breaker. You can argue with — or even disagree with — a coherent opinion. But a sobbing two-year-old sometimes doesn’t make any sense, and it’s difficult to calm someone down when you have no clear notion of what’s upsetting her.
Why it’s not so terrible: You can be pretty sure you’ll be able to outwit a two-year-old. So even if you’re not entirely clear about what’s troubling her, you have a great shot at distracting her. And, hey, when dealing with an opinionated two-year-old, you also have size on your side. You can always pick her up and remove her from a situation, which is something you can’t always do with a grade-schooler.
General truth about the terrible twos:
Two-year-olds are slaves to their moods.
Why it’s tough: They’re hungry. Or tired. And in between, they’re often cranky. So are we, of course, but two-year-olds don’t have the ability to rise above it the way older people do. Sometimes their mental or physical gas tanks hit empty — and a two-year-old running on fumes is not a pretty sight.
Why it’s not so terrible: Fortunately, if you know this about two-year-olds, you can guard against meltdowns by being prepared with snacks and engaging toys, and by tackling errands (or activities) after your child has napped. With a little planning, you really can circumvent some ugly scenes.
General truth about the terrible twos:
Two-year-olds have nothing better to do.
Why it’s tough: A snit that lasts all morning and makes everyone late is not a problem for a two-year-old. It’s not as if she’s got other plans for the day.
Why it’s not so terrible: If you tell someone you were late because you were managing a tantrum from your two-year-old, you will most likely be met with sympathy. This ready-made excuse for lateness can come in handy…even on days when your toddler isn’t to blame.
General truth about the terrible twos:
It’s a state of mind.
Why it’s tough: The “terrible twos” can hit at 18 months or at 34 months. It’s less an age than a stage of development, so you may be dealing with it when you least expect it.
Why it’s not so terrible: Your child may breeze right by year two (or three) without making you think the word “terrible” — especially if you make a point of focusing on (and savoring) — the wonderful moments that undoubtedly mark the terrific twos.
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toddler behavior and discipline tips.
Favorite Activities: Art, reading, swimming, dancing, swinging, and singing.
Mediterranean Chicken Couscous This quick and easy dish requires hardly any cooking. Packaged couscous mix and rotisserie chicken are the main ingredients required; toss in some fresh basil, feta cheese and grape tomatoes and you’ll have an easy, flavorful meal that’s sure to please.
(By the way, Athena picked out her own tutu.)
"Mmmmmmm tortellini......"
