Upset at myself

[goldenb]

I have a 2 year 7 month old boy and I am also 28 weeks pregnant. My DH works late hours so I spend most of the time on my own taking care of the little one and everything else.

However, it seems like I am unable to control my toddler. At the end of the day I would be exhausted and start screaming at him hoping that he would obey (which and then he does). But I get so upset with myself because does it have to be this way? Screaming and shouting and punishing him by giving him time out? Am I doing something wrong? I feel so helpless, exhausted and annoyed with myself because I do not enjoy spending time with my toddler any longer.

Sending you hugs.

I found I used to get into a similar cycle with my eldest, particularly when I was really tired.

Don't know if it helps, but I found that the best thing was a really solid routine, and spending time doing something positive with him, when I was really concentrating on him.

For instance, set time for snack, then half an hour doing something like colouring. Then he would happily wander off and play on his own, so I could grab time to tidy up or have a cup of tea.

I know it's easy to say, but consistent rules, lots of positive play, even when you're knackered, is actually less tiring than shouting and fighting.

Good luck. xxx

I'm in the same situation (very very pregnant/toddler/DH long hours)and it is really hard going. It's not normally this hard though and i keep having to remind myself. Found the book playful parenting very handy. It's by Cohen and can be found on Amazon. It's slashed the amount of timeout used by huge amounts and is very constructive.