I had three straight days of dealing with a really frustrated 19 month old this past weekend. I don't know if his behavior qualifies for the "terrible twos" yet, but I can't imagine it can get much worse. Let me rephrase: I REALLY HOPE it doesn't get much worse than this. Wow. I've never looked forward to going to work as much as I did on Tuesday. To make things worse, he followed those awful days with some really great days at daycare. This always makes me question why he saves the "bad" days for home? I know he's not "out to get me", but he can really push my buttons!!
All of my friends with older kids assure me that this is a phase that will pass. I know that its true but I'm having trouble with the whole "light at the end of the tunnel" thing (and I've also heard that 3 is harder than 2 for some kids!). In any case, I wasn't prepared for this. I actually started reading books about the Terrible Twos when he was 14 months old so that I would know what to expect, and how to deal with it. (insert laugh track here) Lets call this a rookie mom move. I'm starting to come to terms with the fact that most things with toddlers can't be pre-meditated. I'm trying to be more fluid and realize that just dealing with things as they come up is probably more practical.
However, being practical is not so easy since toddlers aren't very rational. (Is this an understatement or what?). Learning to pick your battles seems to be key in this obstacle. I don't understand how these little creatures learn to be so opinionated so early in life, but they certainly have a point of view, and want to be heard!!! I'm learning that I need to set aside personal agendas (when appropriate) and help my little one through this rough time in the best way I can. When I keep in mind that most times are of these "rough" days are just as difficult for him as they are for me, its easier to be compassionate and patient.
Someone said to me that the key is to know that the bad days will pass and to really enjoy the good days. I think this is sound advice for now.
Here's to a great day!
AJ
