Often, the time of negativism known as the “terrible twos” starts in a toddler's second year. It is at this time that you may start noticing that your child has more temper tantrums and gets angry and frustrated when he doesn't get his way. It is important to understand that this is normal behavior. Can you really expect a toddler to understand why he can't do all of the things he wants to do, when he wants to do them? Of course not. But that doesn't mean that you can't work to stop these tantrums and teach him a better way to behave. Instead of giving in to tantrums (which would teach that throwing himself on the floor, banging his head, and screaming is the correct way to get things), you should try to discourage them.

The best ways to discourage tantrums are to stick with regular and predictable routines of when you do things, ignore tantrums when they occur, and try to distract your child if you see a tantrum coming. For behaviors that you can't ignore, such as hitting and biting, stay calm. A strong reaction will only encourage him to do it more.

The most important part of learning to discipline your toddler is that you should be prepared. Don't get in the habit of simply reacting to your child's behaviors, because you will be more likely to just get mad and won't be doing much to encourage better behaviors or reduce bad behaviors. You can avoid becoming the stereotypical authoritarian father by learning how to praise good behaviors, set limits, discipline in a calm and loving manner, and avoid physical punishment, like spanking. Most important, remember that discipline is more about teaching your child how to behave. It is not all about punishment.