My dd has just turned 2. She is dc4 and an absolute terror. I find she is contrary about everything. It is not only (what I percieve to be) normal things like nappy changes, tooth brushing, getting dressed etc but also what should be pleasant like reading stories or drawing. Tonight I tried to read stories with her and ds (4). They were interactive books and she spent the whole time trying to cover all the feely bits/flaps just so he couldn't touch them. If I was reading to her by herself she wouldn't do this but she won't listen to what I say or engage in anyway she just turns the pages or throws the books on the floor.
I tried to get her to help me do something earlier but instead of helping she deliberately withheld the item that was needed so rather than us doing something nice together I end up walking away because there is no point. If we go for a walk she will often just take her shoes off and refuses to move. If I try and pick her up she raises her arms to become a dead weight. If I put the shoes back on she just throws them. I have taken to not bothering trying and letting her walk without them in the hope she will understand that actually it is not pleasant for her or me.
I don't spend any quality time with her because she is not interested or makes it so difficult it takes all the enjoyment out of it. I feel so sad. I loved this age with my older dc. I loved teaching them things and doing things with them but she will not engage with me at all. She is my last dc and I feel so sad that I am wishing my time away with her.
I do wonder if she has a hearing or sight problem and will bring it up when I have her 2 year check. I do obviously love her to bits but everyday she just grinds me down a little bit more.
Help!