Nanny 911: Toddler Discipline for a Child Who Hits
I need serious help. At 1 year old, my son is already very mean. He'll hit me in the face—hard—and then laugh. Or ignore me. Or throw a fit. I try time-outs, but I have been told I shouldn't physically restrain him for time-outs, and he won't sit in the spot I put him in. I need to change my toddler discipline tactics and nip this behavior in the bud before it gets worse.
This isn't just about toddler discipline, it's about getting attention, and it's hard to put a 1-year-old in a time-out because they don't yet understand the concept of consequences. I suggest that when he hits you, just look him in the eye and say calmly, "No hitting," and take his hand and demonstrate gentle touching by having him stroke your face nicely.
,br> Also, stop using "no" for everything. The word "no" has become a game with your son, and so you should only use it in the correct way. (Learn the Nanny's "No" technique.) If he is in the trash, tell him, "Dirty! Now we go wash hands." Electrical cords can be "Danger!" Then offer him something safe for him to play with. "No" has become a fun way for him to get your attention, so give him your attention by playing with him, getting him involved in other things, and saving "no" for moments of discipline when you really need it!
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,br> Also, stop using "no" for everything. The word "no" has become a game with your son, and so you should only use it in the correct way. (Learn the Nanny's "No" technique.) If he is in the trash, tell him, "Dirty! Now we go wash hands." Electrical cords can be "Danger!" Then offer him something safe for him to play with. "No" has become a fun way for him to get your attention, so give him your attention by playing with him, getting him involved in other things, and saving "no" for moments of discipline when you really need it!
Get more child behavior tips from the Nanny 911 Nannies!
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Nanny Deb
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