One year old has started shouting :(

[multicolourcat]

Suddenly overnight, he has become a little monster! Shouting at me and demanding constantly. Is this normal, and what's the best way to deal with it? Just ignoring in the hope it will stop? I really hate it :(

Normal, he's just showing off his new skill - his BIG voice!

What sort of things is he shouting? Is he trying to show you things, or showing frustration at not being able to do something? Or is he trying to master how best to handle his budding independence?

Yes, shouting for independence. So, if I don't let him do something (for example, leave our appartment when daddy goes to work!) he shouts so loud and angrily. Before he might have had a little cry and be distracted easily, but gosh he suddenly seems very strong willed. Also, if I am cooking and he wants to be held he is shouting at me and also, he is waking in the night now and rather than crying is shouting, and also in the morning shouting when wanting to get out of the cot :( . I'm finding it really difficult.

My 1yr old DS is also doing this. No advice I can offer (we are just making sure we stay firm so he doesn't think he will get his own way by shouting) but just want you to know you're not alone!

Yes it's normal, but yes you need to deal with it else you'll be worn to a frazzle.

Ignoring as much a possible is good (less fun if no audience, but expect an increase in the short term - do not crack at this point, or the message will be 'if you keep shouting louder and louder you'll eventually get what you want')

Also, when he pauses for breath, say very quietly, something along the lines of 'I can't make out what you say when it's too noisy. Can you tell me again in a normal voice?'. Reward with your full attention if he tries.

It's a long haul (sorry). My DCs are older and there are times still when I wish they (and one of their friends in particular) came with a volume knob!