Safe Exploration
Given two-year-olds' readiness to put new objects into their mouths and to smash new toys on the floor, you had better keep a close eye on them. The fact is, two-year-olds need to be watched as closely as younger babies. Even though they understand more than infants, they aren't more knowledgeable about their surroundings. Although actively learning, they haven't yet developed the ability to monitor themselves all the time.
Essential
When you need to give your two-year-old important information — about safety, for instance — make sure you get down to eye level so that he's looking directly at you and then speak. If necessary, say, “I need you to look at me.”This eye contact will give your words more impact.
The good news is that when you explain to your two-year-old why he can't do certain things, such as put small objects in his mouth or stick his fingers in light sockets, before too long he will understand you. Many parents have a
This three-times rule holds true not only for two-year-olds but also for most people. Because it takes awhile for any of us to learn something new, try not to expect your child to hear and understand what you're saying the first time you say it.
One strategy is to try to teach your child a rule using more than words alone. Show him, if you can, the danger of what he's doing (not by hurting him, of course, but with a hands-on explanation). Try to demonstrate the right way to do something. Then finish by letting him try, if possible, the right way to do something.
The gas station; the grocery store; your kitchen; the homes of relatives; the park: These are all places your child finds fascinating and where he can learn much about the world. Exploring the world with your two-year-old is fun. (When was the last time you actually stopped to smell the roses?) But that means it also can be slow-going.
Not only do two-year-olds sometimes run when you don't want them to, they also stand still during times you want them to move. This can present a parenting challenge. Having a bit longer attention span than they used to, they will stop at something that interests them and not want to budge if you rush them. Nor are they as easily distracted as they used to be. Although their ability to focus is still undeveloped, two-year-olds are able to concentrate on one thing for ten minutes.
