Toddler Preparation

We've all heard of the "terrible two's." Is there any way to prepare for the onslaught of toddler-hood? The experts I've been reading say there is a lot you can do early to lay the foundations of moral instruction (i.e. obedience) beginning around 5 months.

In the Babywise series, there is a book dedicated to the child between 5 and 15 months, called a "pre-toddler." They point out that babies even as young as 5 months are able to understand simple, repeated commands (like "no" for example).

Why bother enforcing obedience in babies at this age? Those obstinate two-year-olds in the grocery store prove that if you wait, you won't have quite as receptive a student. A pre-toddler is eager to please Mom and Dad.

There are several methods of teaching at this age. Babywise II recommends holding Baby's hands out of his mouth while saying "keep your hands out of your mouth" when you feed him. Eventually, Baby will understand those words. Similarly in Secrets of the Baby Whisperer for Toddlers, Hogg suggests saying "thank you" for the child who can't say it himself yet. Expression matters too. Our son (6.5 months) understands a look and a tone even when he doesn't understand the words. I have been thrilled to see him willingly obey me on a few things already.

By age three, children make one of two basic conclusions about life. Either (1) "it is my job to listen to them" or (2) "it is their job to listen to me." Whatever method you choose, begin early to train your child in obedience. It will be easier the sooner you start.

RESOURCES

Babywise II

Raising Godly Tomatoes (www.raisinggodlytomatoes.com)

Secrets of the Baby Whisperer for Toddlers