HELP I Have an Aggressive 2 Year Old

Dear C.,

Well, probably the school was right. A smaller situation for him would be a good start to solving the problem.

Also, talking is not the way to get through to the little guys. Do it with his body. Spend time stopping him. Saying no, that is not the way to play. That hurts people, and I won't let you do that. Then physically pick him up, take him to get a drink and maybe a small snack, and find him something else to do. If he fights you, then put him in his room, with a gate door on it, or sit him in a chair, and sit by the door or by the chair and don't talk to him too much, just enforce that he has to do what you say, and cannot get up until you say so. Let him know that you are in charge, and it will make him feel safer. Truly. It will work, but it will be a hard job for a bit, you can do it. I have done it plenty of times. He is only little kid, and wants to play and have fun, but he has to have guidance - not words so much.

C. N.

Welcome to the Terrible Twos. My son started the terrible twos months ago, and he's only 18 months old. Good luck.

Ali

You said he is only doing it at school? Maybe something is going on at the school and hes doing it for the wrong reason. Stop in to the school and watch to see what brings it on.

He may be acting out because of the changes in his life. 2 year olds are still very much physical rather than verbal. I agree that if you have to go back to work you should find a place for him that is a more intimate setting. Remember, mom has always been right there and now she's not. That can be confusing and a little frightening as well.He needs to feel secure. The transition just needs to be handled with patience, which can take alot out of you! Are you able have him cared for in your home rather than a daycare? Good luck!

Hi C.. I think its just the terrible twos. my son is 2 and does the exact same things. but he only does them at home. other family members he stays with say they have no problems. i think they are just trying to assert their personalities and to see what limits they can push with everyone. i put my son in time out and tell him why he is there. as for the biting i have resorted to tabasco sauce. just a dab on the tip of his tongue and he really does not like that so he has stopped with the biting. i do think this is a stage and they will grow out of it. good luck to you!

To C.,
My two year old is hitting and biting too. And we have been trying to break this habit. Not sure yet but we do remove him from the situation and place him on timeout. It does temporarily fix the problem. If yoou figure this out please let me know. Good Luck!!