Toddler Temper Tantrums: I Suck at Discipline
Submitted by
Deva Dalporto
I have a serious case of disciplinitis. Seriously, I'm allergic to the whole concept of taming toddler temper tantrums. I just can't seem to follow through on any kind of disciplinary plan. Not even the parenting plan du jour—"positive discipline" stuff.
I know I'm doing my kids a disservice by refusing to lay down the law. I know they need boundaries and rules. But when my toddler starts throwing a temper tantrum, I usually just cave and say "Fine! Have another cookie if it'll keep you from having a meltdown!" Bad mommy ... I know.
I wish I was stronger when it comes to toddler temper tantrums. I see other mothers nip them in the bud in their homes and even in public. I could never quash a tantrum in the middle of the supermarket! I'm too scared to look like a mean mommy. My toddler must know this, because I've faced many a toddler temper tantrum in the candy aisle! (Why do they put it at toddler eye level at the checkout? Make my life easier, please!)
I don't know why I have such a hard time with discipline. I try. I've read all the books, Tivoed all the Nanny 911 episodes. It just doesn't come naturally to me. I want to be strong. I want to be tough. But when I see that tiny little face covered in tears, I just fall to pieces and do anything to make it better ... even if I'm making things worse in the long run.
I know I'm doing my kids a disservice by refusing to lay down the law. I know they need boundaries and rules. But when my toddler starts throwing a temper tantrum, I usually just cave and say "Fine! Have another cookie if it'll keep you from having a meltdown!" Bad mommy ... I know.
I wish I was stronger when it comes to toddler temper tantrums. I see other mothers nip them in the bud in their homes and even in public. I could never quash a tantrum in the middle of the supermarket! I'm too scared to look like a mean mommy. My toddler must know this, because I've faced many a toddler temper tantrum in the candy aisle! (Why do they put it at toddler eye level at the checkout? Make my life easier, please!)
I don't know why I have such a hard time with discipline. I try. I've read all the books, Tivoed all the Nanny 911 episodes. It just doesn't come naturally to me. I want to be strong. I want to be tough. But when I see that tiny little face covered in tears, I just fall to pieces and do anything to make it better ... even if I'm making things worse in the long run.
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