When You Can't Take Your Toddler ANYWHERE

by Catherine Ipcizade | More from this Blogger

Perhaps your two-year-old is a perfect angel all the time. Perhaps they would never, ever, in a million years think of crawling under the table at a restaurant. Perhaps you've got the whole discipline thing down pat. If so, I give you credit, because life in my household just got crazy.

My daughter will be three at the end of January. She's bright, beautiful, and charming. She's also a monster.

Up until a few months ago, I could take her anywhere. She'd fuss every now and then, but that's to be expected. Then, as if someone flicked a light switch, everything changed. Suddenly, she started standing up on the booth at restaurants, dropping her crayons on purpose and then quickly flying under the table to "get them" (aka: play peek-a-boo with people's feet), and yes, throwing temper tantrums (small ones, but still...). I know what you're wondering. You're wondering what I did about it, why I didn't nip it in the bud, why I'd ever allow my child to get away with these things. The answer? I wouldn't.

But let me tell you something about 2 ½ year olds. They can misbehave quicker than you can stop them. They can let out a yelp before you can tell them to "shush." They can slide under the table like a slippery snake before you have the chance to put your fork down.

My point is this-I don't know everything. Parents who think they know everything usually don't. I try to be consistent. I am firm with my daughter. I tell her what is acceptable and what is not. I am not one of "those" parents, who lets her child misbehave in a store or restaurant without doing anything about it. But sometimes, I just don't have all the answers. Sometimes, I want to crawl under the table myself-and hide. But I don't. I do the best I can and I hope for better the next time.

There's a reason they call 'em the "terrible two's." For some, it doesn't start until the child is three or four, but in my case, I guess I just got "lucky."

If you're feeling like me, know two things. One, you're not a bad parent. And two, you're not alone. This stage, with continued consistency and firmness of boundaries from you, will pass and will soon be replaced by a new phase, equally as "fun." Happy parenting!

Learn more about Catherine Ipcizade

Cathy Ipcizade is 30 years old and currently resides in Southern California. Prior to coming to California she grew up in Arizona.

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger