The podcast tackles a father's concern about his 2.5-year-old daughter's aggressive behavior, suggesting that the arrival of a new baby may contribute. It explores the impact of language learning and daycare on children's stress levels. Strategies for supporting and addressing aggressive behavior in children are discussed, including being a 'buddy guard' and finding alternative outlets for frustration.
15:28
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Quick takeaways
Aggressive toddler behavior is often a normal response to stress and can be influenced by factors like language exposure and daycare attendance.
Acknowledging a child's impulses and offering understanding while setting boundaries and providing guidance can help them navigate aggressive behavior effectively.
Deep dives
Understanding the Child's Behavior
This episode addresses a father's concern about his 2.5-year-old daughter's aggressive behavior. The host explains that the girl's behavior is likely influenced by various factors, including the upcoming arrival of a new sibling, speaking multiple languages at home, and attending daycare. The host emphasizes that the child's behavior is a normal response to stress and urges the parents to create a safe and supportive environment. Rather than focusing on reprimanding or correcting the child, the host advises offering understanding and validating her feelings while setting boundaries and providing guidance.
Acknowledging Impulses and Providing Support
The host highlights the importance of acknowledging the child's impulses and helping her navigate them. By recognizing that the child's behavior is driven by discomfort and a lack of control, the host urges parents and teachers to be present and intervene when necessary, without overreacting. Additionally, the host suggests using empathetic and honest language to connect with the child, conveying that her behaviors are not seen as defects but rather as normal responses to challenging situations. The aim is to provide a sense of safety and support while also guiding the child toward alternative ways of expressing her frustrations.
Long-Term Outlook and Collaborative Problem-Solving
The host discusses the long-term nature of the child's behavioral challenges, particularly during the transition to having a sibling. While improvements will occur over time, occasional flare-ups should be expected. The host advises parents to maintain a collaborative and empathetic approach, working as a team to understand and address the child's needs. By fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment, parents can help their child navigate through this developmental phase, reducing her impulsive behavior and promoting healthier ways of expressing herself.
Janet responds to a father whose 2.5-year-old is acting out at home and at school by biting, hitting, and sometimes spitting when she doesn’t get her way. The toddler’s dad says he’s tried a respectful approach to curb her behavior, but it seems to be getting worse.
For more advice on common infant/toddler parenting issues, please check out Janet's books at Amazon and Audible (https://adbl.co/2OBVztZ).
Also available for download, her audio series "Sessions" -- recorded consultations with parents discussing their most immediate and pressing concerns (SessionsAudio.com).
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