Terrible Two's

My little one is about to turn two in a few months. I have been hearing “terrible two’s” stories from friends, and I am already dreading it. I am crossing my fingers we will pass this stage with flying colors. He is generally a good boy but as he grows older and become more acutely aware of his surroundings, he is starting to have a mind of his own. Thus becoming more demanding and makulit. There have been instances where he has cried and stomped his feet when he does not get what he wants. There are also a few times where he would go from being happy one minute then crying and irritable the next. I can still handle it for now, just as long as it will not turn into multiple tantrum episodes.

 It is so easy to put the blame on the “oh, he’s just in the terrible two’s stage” and not do anything. But everything must have a reason right? Toddlers can even barely make up a sentence; so much more express their emotions. Perhaps crying is their only coping mechanism or way of communication when we are unable to understand and give them what they want. It could also be due to all the excitement and stimulation that they get from their surroundings, which can be overwhelming and scary especially for a first timer. Whatever the reason may be, I really need to prepare myself in dealing with a terrible two toddler. My only fear is that I do not want to be caught screaming and disciplining my child in public. That will be a nightmare situation. The question is how do I prepare myself? I am torn whether to go the traditional route of scolding and spanking (which I am a byproduct of and I guess it worked!) or take the more popular choice of being diplomatic with lots of calm, positivity, and peace offerings. I will probably take the middle road depending on the situation. I am also seriously considering sending him to school early (my initial plan was when he turns three) so he learns how to listen and behave. Many have reported significant improvements both in behavior and social skills after sending their child to school. So let’s wait and see.