Improving Your Relationship with a 1 1/2-Year-Old: A Guide for Patience and Understanding

As a parent, nurturing a healthy and loving relationship with your child, especially when they are young, is crucial. If you've found yourself getting frustrated with your 1 1/2-year-old daughter, it's not too late to turn things around. Shouting and negative behavior from parents can have a lasting impact on a child's trust and well-being. In this article, we'll explore effective strategies to improve your relationship and teach you how to be a patient and understanding parent.

Understanding and Empathy

First and foremost, it's important to understand that your actions as a parent can significantly shape your child's behavior and emotional development. Shouting and being impatient, while understandable due to the challenges of parenting, can damage the bond between you and your child. A child at this age is still learning and developing, so their behavior may not always be under their control. Recognizing this can help you approach interactions with more empathy and patience.

Building Positive Associations

To rebuild trust and create a more positive relationship, you need to start by associating yourself with positive things in your daughter's life. Find out what her favorite foods, toys, and activities are. Spend quality time with her without distractions such as phones or TVs. Engage in simple, enjoyable activities together:

Play on the floor: Sit down and play with your child at her level. Use board books, stack cups, and engage in simple playful activities like putting them on your head and watching them fall off. Feeding time: Introduce treats and try to get her to take them from your hand. Cheerios are a good start as they are easy to handle. Visit the park: Take her to the park and encourage her to enjoy activities like swinging. Make sure to continue to play and interact with her in a gentle and patient manner.

It's also important to remember that children can become tired, hungry, or wet. Ensure her basic needs are met, and provide comfort when she is upset, whether due to frustration or other emotions. Rock her, sing to her, and be her 'soft place to land.'

Rebuilding Trust and Patience

Building a trusting relationship takes time and effort. You have to show her that you are a different person, one who is patient, gentle, and responsive. It won't happen overnight, and you might face setbacks, but with consistent love and effort, she will come to trust you. Avoid holding her if you know it upsets her, as you have created this situation. Show her that you value and respect her feelings. Be patient and practice gentleness as you work to earn her trust.

Acknowledging Positive Behavior

It's crucial to acknowledge and reward positive behavior. When she cooperates and shows signs of understanding, praise her. Keep the atmosphere light and fun, and avoid any shouting or negative reinforcement. Encourage her to speak to you by asking simple questions and inviting her to participate in activities.

Additional Resources

To support you in this journey, consider reading parenting books and taking a parenting class. These resources can provide additional insights and strategies for navigating the challenges of raising a young child. Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Stay patient, stay loving, and stay committed to creating a positive and nurturing relationship with your child.