KEEPING TODDLERS BUSY

By Dr Bill Maier

You walk into the room and the first thing you see is lipstick all over the walls and furniture. And there in the middle stands your toddler grinning from ear to ear.

You don’t know whether to cry or pat him on the head for being so creative?

You have to love toddlers. They’re filled with energy and enthusiasm. But they also tend to get into a lot of trouble, especially when parents are distracted.

It’s easy to get angry and frustrated at their childish behaviour.

The key is patience.

A toddler’s natural curiosity can often lead to broken lamps and colored walls, but instead of getting mad, learn to redirect their energy toward constructive things.

Keep plenty of art projects and coloring books on hand. Learn to nurture their talents, not to suppress them.

Remember, the best way to keep toddlers out of trouble is to keep them busy and supervised.

From TODAY, Voices – Monday, 18-May-2009

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