6 Resolutions for Better Toddler Behavior

From dealing with defiance to constant power struggles, handling toddler behavior can be tough. To help your kid stick to your limits, make these smart resolutions to improve how you deal with your toddler's difficult behaviors.

By Kathleen M. Reilly

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Why Children Need Rules

It's one of the most basic parenting facts: Toddlers behave best when given limits. In fact, they crave them. "Rules provide the predictability and stability kids this age really need," says James Windell, a family therapist in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. "They learn that they can always count on you, which makes them feel secure." Unfortunately, this is also the stage when your child is exploring her independence -- which she accomplishes by challenging your carefully laid-down laws. It's only natural to get frustrated and, in the process, fall into some not so stellar discipline habits. But if you can follow through on even a few of these simple resolutions, you'll see better behavior in no time.

Next: Resolution #1: I won't simply say "Be nice!" when my kid tries to hit or bite his friends.

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