- Read your bio and here are some tips — solidarity first! The “terrible twos” are real, but so is your strength. Here are a few trauma-informed, sanity-saving tips: 🌱 Name the need, not the behaviourTantrums often mask unmet needs or big feelings. Try saying, “You’re feeling frustrated because…” to help your child feel seen and safe.
🧠 Offer choices, not ultimatumsTwo-year-olds crave autonomy. “Would you like the red cup or the blue one?” gives them power within boundaries.
💛 Regulate yourself firstYour calm nervous system helps co-regulate theirs. Pause, breathe, and ground before responding — even if you need to step away for a moment.
🎨 Play it outUse play to process tricky emotions. Puppets, drawing, or silly role-play can help them express what words can’t yet reach.
📚 Rituals over rulesPredictable routines soothe the chaos. Morning songs, bedtime stories, or “clean-up dances” create safety and connection.
You’re not alone in this — and you’re doing better than you think.