Handling Common Parent Issues

Being a parent creates many issues and concerns. Understandably, parents want to rear healthy and well-rounded children. Of course, children – especially toddlers do not make this easy. From picky eaters to temper tantrums, many parents are unsure of ways to curtail universal problems. However, many common parental issues can be easily resolved.

1. Eating Habits

Finicky or picky eaters are common among children. In fact, some toddlers seemingly survive on milk alone. Although this diet does not faze children, parents may find themselves going crazy. Fears of possible malnutrition send many parents flying to the doctor’s office.

On average, toddlers should receive about 16 ounces of milk daily, 2 servings of fruit, vegetables, proteins, and 6 servings of grain. Naturally, many toddlers do not meet the criteria. If your toddler falls into this category – relax. It’s common for young children to refuse food or only eat certain foods. As long as the child is not physically suffering from their finicky eating habits, there is little to worry about.

2. Safety

Saftey is another huge concern among parents. When it comes to a child’s safety, it is important for parents to exercise balance. Becoming so pre-occupied with your child’s safety is not healthy for parent or child. Still, it is important to take certain measures to prevent accidents

� Childproof the house (place covers on electrical outlets, lock cabinets, keep dangerous objects out of reach, etc.)
� Keep car seats and children under 12 in the backseat
� Teach children playground safety tips
� Install fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in the home

3. Anger Outburst

When dealing with a difficult toddler, parents must resist giving in, and avoid losing their cool. Children enjoy testing their boundaries and often push parents to the limit. This may include frequent outbursts or tantrums which consist of yelling, kicking, screaming, crying, and the like. Instead of becoming angry, parent should outsmart their kids

� Ignore the tantrum and walk away
âÂ?¢ Avoid giving in to the child’s request
� If necessary, physically restrain child until the tantrum subsides
� Avoid a negative reaction
� Direct you attention elsewhere (another sibling, cleaning, etc.)

By giving into a tantrum and reacting negatively, toddlers win. Most toddler tantrums are the result of simply wanting their way or their parent’s full attention. Once parents consistently ignore or avoid reacting to outbursts, toddlers will eventually get the hint.