PARENTING
9 Habits of Highly Adorable Toddlers
Psychologists say these are the signs to watch out for
Toddlers can be adorable and frustrating.
Armed with curiosity, naivety and a growing sense of independence, they push the most patient of us to the limit.
As they discover the world around them, their actions go from cute to infuriating. They switch from angel mode to beast mode and back as the situation demands.
And then they flash a smile that will melt away your anger.
If your child acts like this, have no fears. Science has proven that this behaviour is fit for their age.
1. They have a strong work ethic.
At no other time has this become clear than during the pandemic. The work from home orders has provided our toddlers with the chance to prove their skills. From joining you on your Zoom calls to filling crosswords with you; their work ethic has stood the test of social distancing. They climb onto your lap as you work and punch on your machine. Then answer your phone while you are in the bathroom. Your little helper likes to show you that they too have a good work ethic.
2. They are hospitable and inviting.
Your departure is frowned upon. Your Sherlock Holmes has learnt to decipher the signs of your planned exit before you say a word. They watch you from the corner of their eye as you prepare to leave the house. They scream their lungs off as you put your shoes and coat on. And when you return? They greet your arrival with excitement and dancing. Your welcoming committee lets you know in no uncertain terms that your absence was felt.
3. They are proactive.
No time to prepare them for your day out? Have no fear. ‘I got this; I can get ready without your help.’ They will apply lotion, perfume, makeup and baby oil generously before they leave the house; without your help.
4. They are creative and think outside the box.
Rules were made to be broken, weren’t they? From eating with their hands to farting in front of guests; toddlers break all the rules. It follows that their creativity knows no bounds. They draw on walls, furniture and the carpet. Anywhere but the piece of drawing paper you handed them.
5. They are flexible in their thinking and approach.
They call you by your first name, babe, honey or sweetie; never mom or dad: cos that’s what they hear everyone call you. They even refer to themselves in the third person.
6. They are (dis)organised.
Do you feel like your goal in life is to pick up after your toddler? Each time you put away their toys they unload them just as fast.
7. They go to great lengths to execute their plans
When it comes to your toddler, silence is never golden. Beware, they are off creating mischief somewhere. Plus that sheepish smile? Know that something is amiss.
8. They seek first to know than be known.
Wanna know the first rule of friendship? Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Everyone desires to be treated with respect. They say hi to everybody they meet. From your next-door neighbour, the store clerk, the guard and the other kids.
9. They understand that will power is limited.
They want to wear the same clothes and use the same utensils every.single. day. Their sense of style and ability to choose is very narrow. They understand the importance of conserving brain power for more important tasks. Like colouring the wall and climbing furniture. Not on fickle matters like fashion.
Without a doubt, toddlers are so much fun. Our lives would be much less exciting without them.
Our job as parents is to figure out how to raise them to be healthy, happy kids. And to keep our cool while at it.
As always thanks for reading. Keep the comments and corrections coming.
Join my newsletter to stay in touch.
You might also like:
