Winning the Battle Against Whining

Winning the battle against whining can be a challenge for many parents. James, at age 2, has mastered the art of whining to get his way. However, his mother possesses the twin aces of parenting: perceptiveness and persistence, showing that it is possible to overcome this common childhood behavior.

At odd hours, like 5:30 in the morning, he’ll demand the impossible, like chocolate. Absolutely obvious. ‘No.’ His mother states, “It’s that easy.” So, I present him with a choice. A bowl of Cheerios or some waffles is what I recommend to him. I will keep presenting the same choices until he gives in or throws a full-blown temper tantrum.

One option out of three presented to James is accepted about half the time. Whether or not he is hungry or overtired is a major factor.

Being alert.

Assistant research professor in developmental psychology at the University of Michigan, Pamela Davis-Kean, says that awareness is crucial for parents to survive this difficult stage and can make things more bearable for their child.

She warns parents that “these behaviors can occur if the child is tired or hungry” when taking their child to the mall or a restaurant. They should be aware of the time of day. Is it time for a snack? Can I assume that you are asking if it is time for dinner? If that’s the case, meet their need.

If you must venture out, make sure you have everything you need. Take into account how long you expect to be there and bring food and drink accordingly. Don’t forget to bring a stroller or baby carrier, so your tired child has a comfortable place to rest. Do not mistake a child’s reasonable request for rest or food for bad behavior.

Don’t panic; take a few deep breaths.

Keep your cool if your fussy toddler throws tantrums into the public eye. In this case, telling or physically correcting your child won’t work because he doesn’t understand the consequences of his actions.

They are not attempting to embarrass you. Like us, they vent their anger through these means,” Davis-Kean explains.

You should be prepared to quickly pick up your child, push the shopping cart to the side, and exit the store with them if things get difficult while you’re there. Otherwise, you’ll cave in eventually.

Give your kid an explanation for why you have to go outside, Davis-Kean advises. Tell them you won’t be coming back inside until they calm down and explain that their behavior is unacceptable. But parents must take action and see it through.

Make use of your words.

It’s a familiar refrain in daycare centers and a phrase Davis-Kean suggests every parent of a toddler learn to say. When your toddler starts whining, remain calm and patient, and gently remind him or her to use words instead of tantrums to get what they want.

However, remember that your child will not yet know all the words they may be looking for. Therefore, it is crucial to provide options. Can I get him a glass of milk, please? The intention of taking a nap? to relax with a good book?

Don’t give in.

However, if the child is trying to get his or her way by complaining, you should not give in. Ann Douglas argues that doing so teaches children to whine for longer the next time her book The Mother of all Toddler Books.

In fact, make sure to pay attention to your child when he or she stops whining about reinforcing the lesson that whining isn’t the appropriate way to communicate. Your kid will learn the value of using words to describe how they feel rather than acting on impulse.

Meaningful articles you might like: Figure Out Why Your Kid Is Whining, Reasons Why Toddler Tantrums Can Be A Benefit Eventually, Strategies For Coping With A Toddler’s Tantrum