Keep in mind that babies don’t misbehave. They cry when they need to be fed, changed, soothedor put to sleep. You don’t need to discipline a baby – it’s best to respond to whatever it is that they need.
Children learn best when they feel encouraged and secure. A positive parenting approach is both loving and firm. Everything you do teaches your child something. It’s important to be a good role model. For example, if you want your child to have good manners, set an example by being polite yourself. Your child also learns from watching how you cope when things go wrong.
Why might my child misbehave?
Toddlers and young children are learning to control themselves and get along with others. They may have trouble knowing how to behave when they experience strong emotions.
This can lead to difficult behaviour, such as temper tantrums, saying ‘no’ to everything you ask or even hitting or biting other people.
Your child may be less successful controlling their behaviour when they are:
- tired
- hungry
- feeling sick
- spending too much time on a screen
- experiencing a big change, such as moving house or having a new baby in the family
What can I do to prevent difficult behaviour?
It’s normal for young children to misbehave at times, but there are things you can do to help them learn how to behave appropriately.
Here are a few tips to help prevent difficult behaviour, and encourage good behaviour:
- Make short, simple rules – and avoid having too many.
- Set limits your child can stick to.
- Have a daily routine.
- Make sure your child gets enough sleep.
- Limit your child’s screen time.
