The Looming Two's

My son, Matthew is 25 months old, and I can literally "feel", and see what you are saying, here. My son did nearly the exact same things, but has all but ceased to perform them. I ignored him (and I mean, I wouldn't even glance in his direction) if he didn't RESPECTFULLY communicate with me. No screaming MAMA, no hitting, slapping, foot stomping or anything else. He learned quickly that if he calmed down and said, Momma, mom or something similar in a nice voice, that I would focus 100% of my attention to him. This worked for me VERY well. Good luck and god bless, V.

Here is an excellent site on child training http://www.nogreaterjoy.org/

Here is the first chapter of a book they wrote
http://www.nogreaterjoy.org/index.php?id=to-train-up-a-child

I'm not going to say I never hit but I try a stern voiced warning and redirection to something that is okay before i get to the wrist slapping part. My son is also 2 and he does the Mama!!! bit too. I usually let him do it for a minute then I get down to his level tell him i don't like it when he yells at me and ask him in a neutral tone what he needs. I usually then give him a hug tell him I love but he shouldn't do what he did wrong then redirect him to something he can do and not get into trouble.
I also have a 4 year old autistic child so redirecting is big in my home. Good luck.

Don't ignore her unless you want her screaming and yelling everytime you go out in public. When she yells go to her and say don't yell honey, say mama, I need you. Teach her the right words to use. She's just frustrated that she can't communicate with you as well as you can with her. Definately distract her when she yells to help stop it now. Good luck.

There is a wonderful light-hearted book called, The Happiest Toddler on the Block by Dr. Karp. It provides sound and simple ways to use communication to help toddlers identify their feelings and cope with daily stressors. I have enjoyed reading this.

At two they start knowing what no means. Start counting her with 1-2-3 magic. Don't know what I mean? Call your local library and request the 1-2-3 Magic - Easy-To-Learn Parenting Solutions That Work From Dr. Thomas Phelan ages 2-12. Good luck :)

What I did with my kids is take them out of the situation, into their bedroom, or the public restroom if you are out and about, and let them pitch their fit. When we got there I would say, You tell me when you are done yelling/crying/screaming and when you are ready to talk to me nicely, I will listen. It doesnt take long for them to finish their yelling before they talk nicely to get their point across. It must be frustrating to need to express a specific need and not know the language as well as you need to. Hang in there Momma!