How to Boost Your Toddler’s Confidence With Words

As a parent, you’re always trying your best to help your child be confident, resilient, and happy. But sometimes even the best parents slip into using language that undermines those goals.

Skip the Exaggerations

When you’re handling a whiny, strong-willed toddler it can be easy to use sweeping statements like “you always whine!” or “you never clean up your plate!”. But the truth is, those statements are usually unfair and always untrue. No child is always whining or never helping. Using phrases like that can make your tot feel insulted…and even lead to resentment and less cooperation.

We suggest tossing the worlds “always,” “never,” and “worst” right out of your vocabulary!

Reframe That Name

Along with these exaggerations, there are a few more labels that can go on your verbal no-fly list. Contrary to the old sticks-and-stones adage, verbal attacks can hurt a child, and negative descriptors we assign to youngsters can tear them down. Fortunately, positive words can be just as formative: positive descriptors can build a little one up.

When you find yourself wanting to call your toddler bossy or sensitive, take a moment to think about a positive word you can use instead. Labels can stick with kids for a long time— so let’s make them positive!

For example, you can call your little one “a leader” instead of “bossy.” Use “sympathetic” instead of “sensitive.” “Nosy” can be turned into “curious.” Instead of “picky”, your child just knows exactly what they like. “Slowpoke” can become “thoughtful.”

Think of a positive way to talk about those parts of your tot’s personality that test your patience. And remember: today’s “bossy” toddler can grow into an adult leader. Those aspects of their personality might be the traits they need to succeed later.

Connect with Respect

When your child is upset, it's important that you connect with respect: This means making your tot feel heard and understood using the Fast-Food Rule and speaking in a language they understand (Toddler-ese). 

Avertissement : Les informations présentes sur notre site ne constituent PAS des conseils médicaux pour une personne ou une condition spécifique. Elles sont uniquement destinées à titre d'information générale. Si vous avez des questions médicales et des préoccupations concernant votre enfant ou vous-même, veuillez contacter votre fournisseur de soins de santé. Le lait maternel est la meilleure source de nutrition pour les bébés. Il est important que, en préparation et pendant l'allaitement, les mères adoptent une alimentation saine et équilibrée. La combinaison de l'allaitement au sein et au biberon dans les premières semaines de vie peut réduire la production de lait maternel de la mère et il est difficile de revenir sur la décision de ne pas allaiter. Si vous décidez d'utiliser une préparation pour nourrissons, vous devez suivre les instructions avec soin.