Emmy will be technically considered a toddler exactly ONE WEEK from today. This means, we'll have two little toddler terrors running around being all terror-y.
EXHIBITS A & B:
Since I've had a couple already, I'm an expert (naturally) and wanted to share my top TEN tips for moms with toddlers:
1. Definitely stick to a structured, normal nap schedule. A normal schedule will keep them from getting overtired & cranky. BONUS: You'll get some downtime, too!
Unless that doesn't work, then basically let them fall asleep wherever they want. Let's get real - you won't have this magical 'downtime' until they're 18.
2. Invest in comforting items to help you through long trips; suggestions are blankets,
pacifiers, food, & milk. Allow them to self-soothe in the vehicle so they get used to traveling. It will make life SO MUCH easier for you.
If that doesn't work, just sit with them. Because, seriously, who likes to listen to a baby cry in the car?
3. One word: RULES. Create them, stick with them, & NEVER go off track.
If that doesn't work, let them lay on the clothes you're trying to fold.
4. Invest in age appropriate toys. This will ensure proper cognitive growth and development.If they don't want those toys, let them play with your [clean] stethoscope.
5. Discuss appropriate public behavior BEFORE you leave the house. The last thing you want is a public tantrum where everyone is judging how you handle the behavior.
If that doesn't work, buy them food and drink at the store to avoid such tantrums. If they throw a fit anyway, just pretend you don't hear them. Or know them. That's what I do and, remember, I'm a pro.
6. Treat all of your children the same. This stops expectations in their tracks and everyone in the family knows his/her role as a PART of the family, not THE main event.
Unless you have a princess on your hands. Then treat her as the princess she is.
7. Proper nutrition is EVERYTHING. They will learn to love fruits and vegetables if you continue to give them regularly with every meal.
Unless there's a day you just can't. Then give them donuts.
8. Appropriately dress your children when you take them out in public; this teaches them social norms.
Unless they want to be a ninja turtle. Then that's your new norm.
9. Teach them that hands are not for hitting, smacking, scratching, or tugging on other toddlers. This is a valuable lesson and one that needs to be learned.
If that doesn't work, create physical barriers in every aspect of their lives.
10. Accept that toddlerhood is a phase. This is a just a short period of time and they won't be impossible forever.
If you can't do that, pawn them off your strong, hot husband and tell him you need to "take some pictures."
