Toddlers can be little philosophers, and they can certainly push moms’ buttons. Their tantrums are completely normal, although we wish they wouldn’t throw them. Tantrums are toddlers’ ways of asserting their individuality and breaking free from any restraints they think the world (parents) has on them. Toddlers are like the prerequisite to teenagers (and they both start with the letter ‘T,’ just like the word tantrums; it all makes sense now!)
But because toddlers aren’t purposely trying to irritate their moms, this developmental stage should not be taken personally, even though it sure seems like it. Toddlers are focused on their needs and wants. And honestly, this can serve as an example to the overworked mama. Sometimes, we need to think about our own needs and wants, learn how to say ‘no’ to other adults who take too much from us, and have a good time with life like toddlers. See? They are little philosophers.
The part of the brain that controls self-regulation is not fully developed in toddlers. They need mom and dad’s help to guide them through big emotions. However, some things toddlers say are laughable. So, if you need something to laugh at, and say, “Oh my gosh, my toddler says that too!” just read on.
Here are X things toddlers say that are so pointless (but not really).
15 “The toast is too toasty.”
Texture may feel odd to some kids. And because toddlers don't have a fully developed vocabulary, they try their best to explain why they don't like something. Toddlers are growing, so it's common for the tastes to change as well. One day they like toast, the next day they hate it.
14 “I want the blue sippy cup,” really meant the pink cup.
This one can be super frustrating. You got them what they wanted, now they don't want it. Not only that, now you have an extra thing to wash, or one less sippy cup in the cupboard for another time. It's possible that they just suddenly changed their mind. Toddlers cannot regulate emotions, so their strong feeling of disappointment comes out as a tantrum.
13 “You peeled the banana!”
Either your toddler wanted to peel the banana themselves (which they're probably going to just smash the fruit while trying), or they were hoping that the inside of the peel contained a better-looking banana. It could be a number of reasons.
12 “I want to sleep in the bathtub.”
Kids want to explore. The bathtub, the floor, or anywhere other than their bed is much more interesting. Toddlers want to experience life. And something as simple as sleeping somewhere else (but in their homes) is fun and exciting.
11 “The ice is too cold.”
Toddlers don’t fully understand the concept of temperature. They can understand that their juice is cold; but how can something else have a different level of cold?
10 “Wake up, mommy. It’s time for school” (on a Saturday)
What to Expect explains there could be a number of reasons this happens. But the most obvious and probable reason is because your toddler’s internal clock is used to waking up in the morning. What’s more, toddlers can’t distinguish the difference between Saturday and Monday, nor do they have a concept of time.
9 “Life is so hard,” says the 4-year-old.
This could simply be your toddler copying what you say. But some might actually be exhibiting signs of needing more nurturing, guidance, or attention. So, just keep an eye on what is going on around them and mitigate.
8 “But I like to feel my oatmeal,” squish, squish.
Turns out that playing with food is educational, says science. Toddlers learn the words associated with foods faster and more accurately when they make a total mess of it.
7 “Read this book again.”
Repetition is important for toddlers. It gives them a sense of security, and it helps words stick to their expanding vocabulary. This also explains why kids love hearing or singing the same darn song over and over.
6 “No!”
Ugh, the infamous ‘no.’ As much as you try to explain why their ‘no’ needs to turn into an “Okay, mommy,” saying ‘no’ is part of their growth as a citizen of society. ‘No’ paves the way to self-identity. It’s also their way of setting boundaries; it’s not always the right way, but it’s a boundary nonetheless.
5 “I’m not tired.”
Kids are full of energy. They just want to keep experiencing their world. Many times, toddlers are indeed tired but have FOMO (fear of missing out). A nighttime routine with you included can help soothe their overtired mine
4 “Mine!”
Toddlers cannot empathize with another person. They are also developing the ability to share. Once children learn to empathize, it'll become easier to give or share.
3 “It’s not fair!”
Sometimes mom just wants to belt up, "Life isn't fair." And the reality is that we don't always get what you want. It's not a pleasant feeling even for adults. But because toddlers are experiencing unfairness for the first time in their lives, their emotions about it come out stronger.
2 “Look what I did, mommy!” Scribbled all over your white wall.
Scribbling on walls is a form of self-expression and a sign of their communication developing. If you think about it, ancient Egyptians wrote on walls and left a lot of information for modern researchers to uncover. You might not feel all too good about this. Offer different materials they can scribble on. As a mom of three (not toddlers anymore), I’ve bought a huge roll of paper and taped it on a whole wall at their arm’s length, and it was a great success.
1 “I want to touch the cake in the oven.”
We’re not suggesting you allow your child to touch the hot oven. But as we all know, sometimes you need to experience something for yourself to learn a lesson. You can figure out how to teach this lesson safely.
Sources: Cooper, Wiley Online Library, Parent Circle, What to Expect