Parenting isn't always easy. I just thought I'd let you know.
A baby is a blessing. <-- that's true
A baby grows into a toddler. <-- very true
There is such a thing as terrible two's. <-- well, maybe
I don't like to use the label terrible two's, because it seems demeaning to me. This is just a developmental phase that a child goes through, kind of like teenager years.
I wasn't a difficult teenager.
Ask my mom. I'm really serious.
My parents actually raised me in an attachment parenting style, they just didn't know it was called that.
I was respected, trusted and nurtured. So, I didn't rebel.
Really.
Positive - or - attachment parenting doesn't mean that your toddler or child will never get upset. But it means that there will be fewer issues. Your child will learn to manage his or her emotions.
Today was a tough day. We have been inside a lot lately because of the cold weather. Sophie didn't want to go down for her nap. She was overtired and got to the point that she really didn't know what she wanted.
I decided to take her upstairs, she had to take her nap soon, as it was getting too late in the day.
She wasn't sure at first, but she cooperated. She really was tired. I gave her a dropper of Valerian Super Calm by Herbs for Kids. She nursed, and within mere minutes she was fast asleep.
A part of attachment parenting, is knowing that your child has reached his or her limits. Then you respond in a loving and understanding way. After all, we have all been there... We have times when we are really tired but just - for whatever reason - can't relax and wind down.
-heather
