Your child is becoming an independent thinker. They get an idea and they want to have that or do that. When we say no, they have feelings about that. They need to learn how to manage these disappointments. We can show them things they can do to manage their feelings and accept “no.”

Remember that intermittent reinforcement cements in a behavior so it does not fade away easily. If you sometimes change your mind after you say no, you child will persist with using tantrums.

Today’s activity: Make a plan for how you will manage these “no” situations. First, know that you must be consistent. Say “no” one time and then help your child move on. Put away the object they wanted. Offer them an alternative. Distract them with a different activity. Offer them a calming object or activity.

Learn about the parent course — Help your child talk: Six strategies that boost your child’s communication skills

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