Welcome to Toddlerhood 

1.Patience and Transitions 

It’s impossible to reason with a toddler who is flipping out, but you can help them calm down by being calm yourself and help them move through it faster, which is ideal for everyone involved! I’ve found that taking a deep breath, physically getting down on their level, and saying out loud and in a loving voice, “I know, it’s hard to be a toddler” (something about saying it aloud is very important) allows me to empathize with them rather than give in to the urge to fight against them.

Transitions are really hard developmentally for toddlers. Having patience with your toddler is also really hard. I found a helpful article on ways to cope with transitions and making it easier for your toddler.

https://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler-discipline/transitioning-toddlers-between-activities.aspx)

2. Get yourself dressed and ready before getting them out of the crib 

I used to struggle to get myself and my child ready in the morning, with him making a mess and being fussy. Now, I prioritize getting myself ready first and taking my time with my child if necessary. Control what you can and be patient with the rest.

3. Put your toddler to bed in their outfit for the next day

One of the hardest transitions of our morning routine is getting Memphis dressed and ready for breakfast. Memphis sleeps in 2 piece pajama sets and some days I let him stay in his pajamas all day. PJ sets – ( https://amzn.to/3ukNsvn1).  When Memphis was little, he was always in one-piece sleepwear/onesies but now he is more mobile and I want him to always be comfortable. Plus, I try to minimize our daily struggles.

*Alternative: lay their outfit out the night before, and change their clothes FIRST thing when you are changing their diaper.  

4. Give milk or a snack while you’re changing their diaper in the AM

Toddlers need distractions, like a book or a healthy snack, to avoid meltdowns in the morning. Changing Memphis’s diaper is like wrestling a crocodile – he kicks and won’t lay still. A sippy cup of milk or a healthy pouch helps keep him calm and full. Once Upon a Farm’s pouches sneak in veggies and have no added sugar.

5. Music helps meltdowns 

I have yet to meet a toddler who doesn’t love music, and it has the power to shift Memphis’ mood immensely. (I would like to thank Storytime for his love of music.) He loves dancing, and it helps us start the day in a better mood too! (We usually play our own favorite upbeat songs, but sometimes will mix in some Moonbug radio or Disney or whatever he’s loving lately.)

6. Make smoothies to sneak in more protein and veggies 

Some say smoothies are an essential part of their routine. I love making morning smoothies. Memphis loves drinking from our glasses, so we have found ways to make smoothies with extra veggies and fruit.

Since day one of starting solids, we have always had some food struggles with Memphis. I have learned that one day he will eat so much food and snacks, then the next day he refuses to eat. That is just how toddlers are! I suggest keeping meals and food simple.

7. LOTS of Paci’s in their crib at night 

If your child cries at night because they can’t find their pacifiers, place 8-10 of them in the crib. When they’re old enough to reach for their own pacifier, use this trick. Throw every pacifier you have in the crib to avoid night wakings for pacifiers. My husband Matt came up with this idea and we will continue to use it until we start weaning our child from pacifiers in a few months.

8. A few tips for brushing teeth

Brush your toddlers teeth in the morning and before bed in the bathroom. Make it fun by singing and brushing together. You can try The Wiggles’ tooth brushing song app or watch Elmo’s tooth brushing song on YouTube to get your little one excited about brushing their teeth. Join in and make it a family activity!

9. Stay consistent with a bedtime routine

Despite having a consistent bedtime routine, lately Memphis has had a really hard time transitioning from playtime to bedtime. We have found that maintaining a routine helps him settle down. This includes a bath, bottle, teeth brushing, reading multiple books during story time, and putting him to bed while he’s still awake.

10. Ask family members for help OR take time for yourself 

Self-care and finding time for yourself is so important as a mother. I know this is easier said than done, but it’s crucial to outsource wherever possible, hire a babysitter when you can, figure out how to get time away by yourself, and also with your partner. Schedule it or it will never happen. Society might make you believe that self-care is selfish, but it isn’t. A childhood raised by happy, healthy parents is the best gift you could ever give your children. So, stop with the mom guilt already and plan some fun restorative activities!