A Normal Part of Growing Up?

There are certain subtle clues that your child is entering the terrible twos. They may begin to resist your utterance of the word no. Or, they can get frustrated easily when attempting to stack blocks. Maybe your child became a picky eater when they entered this infamous developmental stage, forgoing fruits and vegetables for crackers and cookies. When these harbingers of true toddlerhood show themselves, your parenting skills are finally put to the test.

Other times, the evidence of your child’s burgeoning temper is placed directly on your lap. In my case, this happened earlier today at the doctor’s office when the nurse politely stapled Annie’s physical stats to a leaflet entitled Temper Tantrums: A Normal Part of Growing Up. If you asked her, she would tell you that it had nothing to do with Annie's being sprawled out on the floor naked and crying. She would, I’m sure, reassure you that they give “The Tantrum pamphlet” to all parents of 18 month olds.

Many of the tips that the pamphlet contained are tactics I use at home, not always to the best results. Encourage your child to use words. Avoid situations that will frustrate your child. Be prepared with healthy snacks when your child gets hungry. Over my child’s normal part of growing up, I posed a few questions that were inaudible amidst the din. What happens when the only word your child utters is no? How do you avoid frustrating situations when that includes, well, all situations? Also ma’am, are snickerdoodles considered healthy snacks? Sadly my inquiries went unanswered.

Overall, Annie was doing great physically. Her stats were as follows: Height 31.25 inches, Weight 24 pounds, 13 ounces, Head Circumference, 18.6 inches. The head stands out above the rest. Is that not huge? It must be all brains. Or, if not brains, then certainly spirit. When she puts her mind to it, that girl can wail.