A PARENTING expert has revealed their top tips for one of the trickiest tasks to achieve with a toddler – how to get them into a stroller.
Being a parent to young children can be fraught with daily challenges from small to big.
And while youngsters in the ‘terrible twos’ phase can be especially disobedient or unruly, the answer usually lies in how you approach potentially difficult situations such as putting them in a stroller.
Haroon Badat of leading foldable pushchair experts The Lejoux Stroller, said: “The ‘terrible twos’ phase can be a nightmare for parents as their little one enters a development phase characterised by tantrums and unruly behaviour.
“It’s when toddlers begin asserting their own independence and pushing boundaries, but are still heavily dependent on adults as well.
“Even a simple task such as putting them in a stroller to go to the shops can become a real handful if the child is determined not to do so.”
Calm but firm
He added: “The key is approaching the situation calmly but firmly, maintaining clear boundaries and authority without being angry or aggressive.
“Make sure there is no reason he or she may be uncomfortable sitting in the stroller, such as a hidden toy or book.
“You could also consider offering them a toy to hold in their hand in order to distract them or offer a healthy snack to keep them occupied.”
Strollers or buggies are hand-pushed vehicles which can make errands such as a trip to the supermarket or a leisurely walk around the park quicker, easier and enjoyable without the child getting tired from walking.
And many have storage solutions for childcare essentials such as wipes, extra clothing, food and drinks.
They are often used until the ages of three or four, which is also roughly the same time the symptoms of the ‘terrible twos’ ease.
While parents, and especially first-time parents, can often be left pulling their hair out by the tantrums and rapid mood changes that come around this time, experts say it’s a totally normal development phase and nothing to worry about.
Unsavoury behaviour
Mr Badat added: “The ‘terrible twos’ are much-talked about and can become a real source of fear for parents approaching this phase, which can start anywhere between 18 to 30 months.
“Your child will begin to explore the world on their own terms, learn how to walk and talk and discover their own emotions and opinions.
“It can lead to a range of unsavoury behaviour, from tantrums and mood swings to kicking, biting, hitting and throwing things.
“The key is not to panic, and not to let the frustration get to you in a way that makes things even worse.
“Use positive reinforcement such as a hug or praise to reward good behaviour, and reinforce the fact you love them, even if you don’t love their behaviour sometimes.
“It’s also important to consider whether hunger, thirst, tiredness or sickness could be affecting their behaviour in a negative way.”
The Lejoux Stroller is one of the UK’s leading specialists in strollers, prams and accessories, with a 100 percent money back guarantee and around-the-clock customer service.
