A toddler reaches an age where their ever expanding vocabulary and their sheer joy in the world provokes them to ask a million questions in the course of one day. Parents often become overwhelmed with the ongoing chatter. Even as a parent rejoices in their child's communication skills they also begin to crave peace and quiet. Answering the same question five times over the time span of one hour can prove exhausting and frustrating. Many parents feel guilty over their reaction of frustration.
The question phase of childhood is a natural transition period. It represents a child's need to learn and understand. It is also a way for a vibrant, energetic youngster to display their exuberance. Parents need to channel the child's energy in another direction when they are exhausted. Here are five steps a parent can do to help alleviate the child's need to communicate and also provide a fun experience for both your.
1) Play-dates
Schedule play-dates, especially during the winter months. Toddlers become bored from being couped up all day long in a house. When the weather is inclement and there is nothing to do in doors a child will begin to talk. This usually takes place in the late afternoon. Planning regular play-dates for your toddler will allow him to interact with other children his age. The little ones can play and carry on conversations with each other instead of expecting an adult to answer a million questions.
2) Outings
Take your child somewhere new and interesting. Encourage the child to ask questions about the location and provide answers. This can be an ideal learning experience for the toddler and it will also satisfy their ongoing curiosity. Even taking the child to the local library for story time is an ideal way to fill this need. After story time take a walk with your little one and encourage her to interact and answer questions. By going on an educational outing with your child the toddlers need for interaction will be met and the evening will be relatively uneventful.3) Time Out
Don't be afraid to take time for yourself. If you need an evening away then take it. Many parents have a feeling of deep guilt if they take time to themselves but time away from your child is good for you and the child. It gives the child the chance to spend time with a babysitter which is a new person to question and it gives the parents a chance to do something for themselves.
4) Solo Playtime
Teach your child the beauty of solo play. Arrange her stuffed animals and dolls so she can interact with them. Solo, imaginative play is healthy and should always be encouraged. Most children will happily chatter to a toy and not seem to care if the toy responds back or not.
5) Together Playtime
No matter how tired you are or how frustrated by the non-stop questions each day still take time to play with your child. Choose a game or simply sit on the floor and let your child choose the toy. Be silly and let your child lead the toy's conversations. Respond appropriately to let the playtime continue. Providing your child with an hour a day of good together playtime can often satisfy the child's need to converse. It can also be an educational experience for your child as you work towards teaching them through make believe play.
