How can I stop her slapping?

[BlondieBear]

My DD is 2.2 and keeps slapping me and DP full in the face. It actually really really hurts. She doesn't do it to other children or to other adults. Just me and DP.

I'm really getting to the end of my tether with it now. It hurts enough that I keep nearly losing my temper with her. I've just had to leave her alone in her room so I can come and calm down. I'm terrified I'll lose my temper and hit her back.

Desperately need some advice/suggestions.

I've a 19month old who recently tried this. I told her calmly that there is no hitting and the next time she'd be put on the ground. She would do it when in our arms. So she'd give me another slap and I'd say again, no hitting and put her on the ground. (Ignoring her protests) I repeat it the same way every time.

Walking away to calm down is a good idea. Then when you're calm again, just tell her it it hurts and she is not to hit you.

If she tries it when we are both are on the ground, I tell her she can't hit me but can hit this cushion instead. My DH doesn't agree with this but it worked for me.

They can really inflict some damage, can't they! Ow.

I've tried saying "don't hit, it hurts and makes mummy sad" but she just announces "I can hit mummy" and does it again.

I know I should be grateful she's not doing it to other children but I'm starting to take it personally

what about saying nothing and just leaving the room completely?
sounds like a tricky one

Can you try time out? I know she's very young but might be worth a try?

I said no hitting and then put him straight in his room. I didn't make him stay in there. He would usually toddle out and we would carry on normally.

I would agree with the comment of just putting her down in a safe place. When she does it give her a girm "No hitting!". Put her down and ignore completly for a few mins. Pick her up again and if she does it again do the same routine. She will understand after repeated routines of this that she should not do it. I would slso agree with getting some space for a little bit when your temper is fraying. Don't be tempted to hit back. It will only confuse her with mixed messages snd leave you feeling awful. hth

silly phone - should have read firm message.....

You take her wrist, hold it firmly and say 'don't hit mummy' then get up and walk away. Do this every time.

I shall persevere with the "don't hit mummy" and then walking away. She really seems to be enjoying hitting me, it's this that's worrying me really. She grins so much while she does it/I ask her not too. She's so well behaved in every other way it's really confused me. Wish me luck.

She does it for a reaction

Keep your voice firm but neutral when you tell her no hitting.