Discipline

DS is nearing 2yrs and the good old 'dont touch' etc techniques are just not cutting it anymore. I've found myself smacking his hand a couple of times this week after 3 or 4 warnings not to do something by which time I fairly riled as of course in typical toddler fashion warnings apparently make him want to do it more and with that devilish look in his eye as he tests his boundaries.

I know I need to come up with a better, more effective system for disciplining him and would really appreciate advice on how you do things in your household and if you have any books on the subject you'd recommend.

I dont have an issue with the everyday stuff like wanting something he cant have etc etc but the big stuff like throwing dirt / sand at people or pinching I just cant seem to get through to him with getting down to his level and explaining why we dont do this sort of thing, he just ignores me and does it more and I get frustrated and things escalate which I'm not happy with (not happy with my actions that is), any advice is appreciated - I'm very sure I'm not the first mother to an an active 21mth old to be feeling this way!!!!

Edited by kiwikid

I was gonna say timeout too. We have used timeout once in the last 4 or 5 months. So we very rarely use it but he sure knows hes done bad when it does happen since we use it so rarely

I would try time out too. Callum had his first one last week (he's 16m) as he was constantly pulling my hair and I could tell he knew what I was saying when I told him gentle and NO. He sat for about 30 seconds, I was impressed he seemed to "get it" that I meant business and I got a big hug afterwards and then we carried on with something different. At C's age it's more of a last resort/way to break out of the "one more time for a better reaction" thing. But with kids I've nannied for in the past timeout is definitely an option by 2yo

active boys can be so frustrating and exhausting!

Yeah I was gonna suggest a Diane Levy book too - Yes I love you, now go to your room. We've found the Ask, Tell, Act trio works a treat!

We have the same problem, but at Campbell's age, he just thinks its all a game! Too soon for time out? I find for minor things I'll just distract him, but if he's trying to hit me with something or hurting the cat, then I'll say "no" firmly and quickly take either the offending weapon away, or him away from the cat.
Might have to find one of those books next time I'm at the library!