Questioning authority
Children over 15 months have acquired a sense of independence that is shown by rebellious moments, which will happen more frequently.
Faced with this new situation, every parent will adopt an attitude based on his own upbringing, personality, partner’s personality and the stand already made with any older children in the family.
We have collected three experiences from parents on how they demonstrated their parental authority.
We hope their perspectives will help you find the best approach for you and your baby.
Mark and Mei Yin, parents of Thomas, 20 months
Well-explained authority works!
"Thomas is a very active boy. Right from the time he first started walking, he wanted to touch everything in the house. Life was getting impossible because we constantly had to watch him and tell him not to touch things over and over again.
At first we tried to put everything out of his reach, but there were always things that we missed. We decided to explain to him calmly but firmly that there are things within his reach that are not for him. We took the time to walk around the flat with him, showing them to him. Thomas understood very well that it wasn’t a game. I think the fact that we were both there made an impression on him. Since then, he has sometimes touched "forbidden objects", but that rarely happens. And he seems to be even happy that he has special responsibilities, just like an adult!"
Shamsul and Katrina, parents of Nadia, 16 months
Don’t take different stances!
"For some time now, Nadia has been refusing everything. Whether it’s changing her nappy, getting dressed, taking her bath or eating anything other than pasta, her response to every suggestion is the same — "No!" Faced with this obvious need to rebel, we took a stance of not clashing with her. It won’t do us any good to insist on what we want or just do as she does. We needed to show her some flexibility and let her see that one can make allowances. We’ve decided to set priorities to maintain a pleasant family life."
Bala and Nisha, parents of Vijay, 18 months
Exerting your authority at the right time can be reassuring!
"When he was coming up to 15 months, Vijay suddenly became very difficult at mealtimes. He refused to try new foods. He wanted to eat with his fingers, despite being adept at using his little spoon and fork. Rather than accept or oppose everything, we chose some areas which we wouldn’t give in and we were more tolerant on the rest. Vijay must eat the foods he likes with his spoon and try at least a mouthful of the ones that he doesn’t want to know. In return, he can eat certain "permitted" foods with his fingers, like little bits of chicken or fruits, and he doesn’t have to finish everything on his plate. What we actually did was just set a few new rules. These clear and simple rules have certainly given our Vijay a feeling of security."
Related articles
Healthy eating habits start now
Did you know? Your baby’s dietary patterns are set before his second birthday.
6 mins to read
Your growing toddler – What to expect beyond 1000 days
Look back at the healthy habits you’ve encouraged, which have helped your toddler grow so far, and look forward to the exciting developments to come.
6 mins to read
How to handle toddler sleep problems
You know they’re tired, but they refuse to listen—and try as you will, the land of nod seems but a distant dream.
2 mins to read
Travelling With Baby
Going away with your baby gives you the opportunity to spend time with your family and enjoy their company. To make your trip a success, good preparation and organization are essential.
2 mins to read
Smart snacking guide for toddlers
In order to meet his nutritional and energy needs, your toddler may need to eat between his main meals.
4 mins to read
Common weaning foods and the risk of allergy
Learn more about foods which are least allergenic, and which foods can cause allergic reactions in your child.
1 min to read
10 healthy habits to carry on
Breastfeed your baby; Make physical activity part of her daily routine; Help her to get enough sleep; Introduce the right foods at the right time; Prepare food safely; Don’t forget water; Encourage
10 mins to read
Terrible twos coming up? How to deal with toddler tantrums
Now they’re walking and talking, your toddler’s asserting their independence more and more every day, as well as developing a strong willpower!
2 mins to read
Little injuries
Your baby’s small injuries: Small injuries may play a part in your baby’s daily life. The best solution is always to seek your doctor’s advice.
4 mins to read
Your toddler menu planner
Wondering what and how much you should be serving at mealtimes?
1 min to read
Toddler stay home activities: Happy playtime ideas for your 12-18-month-old
Here are five activity ideas to keep your increasingly mobile one-year-old entertained during this extraordinary period.
4 mins to read
Baby Self Feeding – Time for Independence
Now that your 10-12-month-old is really getting the hang of feeding himself, keep offering him a wide variety of foods and textures to establish good, healthy eating habits.
5 mins to read
Tips on planning a toddler birthday party
Planning a one-year-old’s birthday party can be surprisingly tricky.
3 mins to read
The Importance Of Eating Together
Many health professionals think that an enjoyable shared meal is an important aspect in good health.
2 mins to read
How to provide a balanced diet for your toddler
It’s easy to fall into bad habits when preparing food for your toddler. Find out how some simple swaps and small changes can make his meals and mini meals healthier.
4 mins to read
Toddler activities: Happy playtime ideas for your 18-24-month-old
Follow these five games to keep your toddler amused—and you sane—while you work from home.
5 mins to read
Discover how MOs work for your child’s immunity
As a parent, you want to protect your child now and in the future. That includes shaping his or her immune system to make it strong.
4 mins to read
A guide to family meals for toddlers
Wondering how you can enjoy family meals for toddlers? Eating together is a lovely way to bring everyone together and to teach your toddler about healthy eating.
2 mins to read
A to M of Nutrition
Learn what is important for your child’s nutrition, growth and development here, from A to Z!
9 mins to read
