This post contains affiliate links. If you click and buy, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. See my disclosure policy for more information.
Two-year-olds struggle with reliance and their desire for independence. They’re eager to do things on their own, but they’re beginning to discover that they’re expected to follow specific rules. The difficulty of this healthy development can lead to inappropriate behavior, frustration, out-of-control feelings, and tantrums.
Are terrible twos with Irish twins worse?
When Jack turned two and Luke was one, I kept wondering if it would get easier. It was not the time for sure! Luke started walking, and Jack began his “terrible two” tantrums. We also moved in March of 2018, which was exciting and stressful, but we got rid of a ton of things that we didn’t need or use.
When Luke started walking, it was terrific. The downside is that now when I went to the grocery store, I would have a tough time because one would have to sit in front of the shopping cart and the other in the basket. If I didn’t do this, Jack would be the first one to run off to the toy section of Wal-mart.
Often, I would have to wait until the evenings when my husband was home, and the boys were sleeping to go to the store. Other times, I would run to the grocery store right before picking them up from daycare. Honestly, you do spend more when your kids are with you, or you walk out and try another day again because you just get exhausted.
The Worst:
The “terrible twos” all started around 28-months for Jack. The throwing of his plate, hitting, banging his head on the floor (Read More Here), and screaming. I honestly thought the banging his head on the floor due to the frustration was the worse of all.
When we went in public, I am sure people judged me, but I couldn’t allow my son to live in a helmet or be stuck in the house because he had a bruise on his forehead. I would always make sure he was in a safe place and wait till he collected himself so we could talk about it. It didn’t take long till he caught on.
He even quit throwing his plate when I would take it away and wrap it up. He then would be served the next day again for lunch or dinner. Food is expensive, so I try not to let it go to waste, and my thought is if you are throwing your plate, you are not hungry. Right?
In March of 2018, we moved, and Luke started banging his head on the floor too. (I know HELP!) It seemed that as soon as we got past a stage with Jack, it all started then with Luke. I think the terrible twos stage may be the toughest till the become a rebellious teenager, but I hope I am wrong with that thought too. (Do you have a Threenager?)
However, I can say since the beginning. I have always had great helpers with cleaning. I told them one day we’re going to get a new home, so we have to clean good. They went to work!
Tips on dealing with a 2-year old:
During this time, expect that you and your child will occasionally lose patience with each other. Try to stay calm. When your child begins to get worked up, try to redirect his or her attention. If you can’t distract your child, ignore him or her.
If you’re in public, take your child aside without discussion or fuss and wait until he or she has calmed down before continuing with your activity.
By accepting the changes your child is going through and showing him or her love and respect, you’ll help your child make it through this challenging stage with confidence.
However, the terrible twos are continuing with Luke, so stay tuned!
Do you have tips and tricks to get through Terrible Twos? Let’s hear them in the comments, please.
Sincerely,