DS is just about to turn 2 and is ramping up for the tantrums and grumpiness, although generally he’s a very good natured kid. I hate it when he lashes out in anger and I tell him “NO. Hitting/throwing/whatever is not allowed” in a very serious voice and serious face (mostly manage to avoid shouting, although not always, I’m only human).
But at the same time I feel kind of bad about this, because I think he’s bloody furious about x,y,z and he doesn’t know any other way of releasing his anger and frustration – which we all need to do! Of course I don’t want him to hit people, but I also don’t want him to repress his feelings or think that it’s “bad” to be angry or upset.
Anyone got any ideas of how to encourage a toddler to express their frustration in a more acceptable way? Sometimes if I stop him hitting me or throwing stuff, he hits his own face, which is heartbreaking! Those sweet, wobbly tear-stained cheeks!