Are you on the struggle bus with your kids?

Parenting toddlers can be a whirlwind of emotions, from joy and laughter to frustration and exhaustion. It’s a phase that tests patience, creativity, and resilience. For parents juggling one or multiple toddlers, (like me, I had 2 under 2 and now I have 2 toddler boys) the challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable. This blog post offers ten practical tips to help decrease stress and anxiety, maintain calm, and find balance amidst the chaos.

1. Establish a Routine

A consistent routine provides toddlers with a sense of security and predictability. Knowing what comes next can reduce tantrums and anxiety for both parents and children.

Morning Routine: Start with a calm and structured morning routine. This might include breakfast, brushing teeth, getting dressed, and a few minutes of quiet play or reading.

Meal and Nap Times: Keep meal and nap times consistent. This helps regulate your toddler’s mood and energy levels.

Evening Routine: Wind down with a predictable evening routine that includes dinner, bath time, storytime, and bedtime.

2. Create a Safe Play Area

Having a designated safe play area allows toddlers to explore and play independently, giving parents a much-needed break. Make this space engaging with age-appropriate toys, books, and sensory activities.

Rotate Toys: To keep things interesting, rotate toys every few weeks. This can reignite your toddler’s interest and reduce boredom.

Supervised Independence: Encourage independent play while you supervise from a distance. This fosters independence and gives you time to manage other tasks.

3. Get Outside

Fresh air and a change of scenery can do wonders for both you and your toddler. Outdoor play reduces stress, burns off energy, and offers a natural setting for learning and exploration.

Daily Walks: Incorporate daily walks into your routine. They’re simple, free, and provide an excellent opportunity for physical activity.

Safe Outdoor Spaces: Find local parks, playgrounds, or even your backyard where your toddler can play safely.

4. Handle Tantrums with Calmness

Tantrums are a natural part of toddlerhood. The key is to stay calm and composed during these episodes.

Stay Calm: Take deep breaths and remind yourself that tantrums are a normal part of development. Your calm demeanor can help soothe your toddler.

Validate Feelings: Acknowledge your toddler’s feelings without giving in to unreasonable demands. For example, “I see you’re upset because we can’t have candy before dinner. It’s okay to feel sad.”

Distraction: Sometimes, distracting your toddler with a favorite toy or a different activity can quickly defuse a tantrum.

5. Manage Toddler Aggression

Toddlers may express frustration through hitting, biting, or throwing things. It’s important to address these behaviors safely and constructively.

Model Gentle Behavior: Demonstrate gentle behavior in your interactions. Use soft touches and kind words.

Teach Words for Emotions: Help your toddler identify and express their emotions with words. For example, “You seem angry. Can you tell me why?”

Set Clear Boundaries: Firmly but calmly explain that aggression is not acceptable. “We don’t hit. Hitting hurts people.”

6. Persuade with Choices

Toddlers often resist doing things they don’t want to do. Offering choices can give them a sense of control and reduce power struggles.

Offer Limited Choices: Instead of asking a yes/no question, offer two acceptable options. For example, “Do you want to wear the red shirt or the blue shirt?”

Positive Reinforcement: Praise your toddler for making a choice. “Great job choosing the blue shirt!”

7. Prioritize Personal Time

Taking care of yourself is crucial. Personal time helps recharge your energy and maintain your mental health.

Scheduled Breaks: Schedule regular breaks throughout the day. Even a few minutes of quiet time can make a big difference.

Date Nights: Plan regular date nights with your spouse or significant other. Hire a babysitter or ask a family member to watch the kids.

Self-Care: Engage in activities that you enjoy and that relax you, whether it’s reading, exercising, or simply taking a bath.

8. Tackle Chores Efficiently

Chores can pile up quickly with a toddler in the house. Find ways to manage household tasks more efficiently.

Involve Your Toddler: Turn chores into a fun activity by involving your toddler. Give them simple tasks like sorting laundry or picking up toys.

Set Realistic Goals: Don’t aim for perfection. Focus on the most important tasks and let go of less critical ones.

Use Nap Times Wisely: Utilize your toddler’s nap time to tackle chores that require more focus.

9. Engage in Quality Time

Quality time with your spouse or significant other is essential. It strengthens your relationship and provides a support system.

Unplugged Time: Put away your phones and other distractions. Spend time talking, playing a game, or cooking together.

Shared Hobbies: Find activities you both enjoy. Whether it’s a hobby or a new project, doing something together can be very fulfilling.

Regular Check-ins: Have regular check-ins to discuss how you’re feeling and support each other through the parenting journey.

10. Find Support

Parenting can be overwhelming, and it’s important to seek support when needed.

Parenting Groups: Join local or online parenting groups. Sharing experiences with other parents can provide comfort and advice.

Family and Friends: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family and friends. Whether it’s babysitting or simply lending an ear, support is invaluable.

Professional Help: If you’re feeling consistently overwhelmed, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor

Parenting toddlers is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey. By implementing these tips, you can decrease stress and anxiety, manage toddler behaviors more effectively, and find a better balance in your daily life. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and take time for yourself. A happy and rested parent is better equipped to handle the ups and downs of toddlerhood.