Questioner: Alicia
Subject: My Two Year old!!
Question: I have an extremely energetic two year old, but I am at wits end with her. She is very mean to other children. She will not share anything. Everything bothers her we even have to cut tags out of her panties, shoes, everything. Capri pants don’t go all the way down to her feet so they even bother her.
I have tried getting her on a schedule. Doesn’t work I have a full time job and so does her dad, and at the end of the night we have tried so hard, but we can’t get her out of our room! Help she’s running us! I am completely aware of that, but I feel as though all I do is yell at her.Any recommendations?
Answer: Dear Alicia:
Your daughter sounds like she is sensitive. Try reading the book the sensitive child by Janet Poland, Ph.D. and the Highly sensitive child (do a google search).
Next, schedules do not work with children. Children do not have a concept of time. Indeed they do not usually tell time until they are about 7 or 8 years old.
Routines are important to children. Consistency in routines is imperative to lower anxiety and stress levels in children. Your morning routine needs to be relaxed and predictable. Your evening routine needs to be relaxed and predictable. (You will benefit as well.)
I have numerous postings you can peruse through on bedtime routines and how important they are for young children. Bedtime routines start long before children go to bed. Turning down stimulus in the environment and hour or so before bedtime. Lowering the lights, noise and relaxing the atmosphere. Having a bedtime routine like a relaxing bath, story time, bedtime massage etc. all play a role in establishing consistent nurturing bedtime routines. Again, you will benefit as well as your daughter.
Best Wishes!
M Kay Keller
