DS is 3y1m and his behaviour at home is rapidly deteriorating. DC #2 is due in 3 weeks and I am expecting further regressions and unsettled behaviour as his world changes so need a plan of action!
We have constant battles over getting him to do anything he doesn't want to. I'm very much of the school of parenting that you pick your battles but some things are non-negotiable, eg something other than an ice lolly for dinner, going to nursery (he loves it there once he's in the car), having a bath/shower a few times a week (don't force the issue every day) etc etc.
I've tried (and they used to work)
- giving plenty of warning that eg it's bath time next
- using a timer on my phone so that once it goes off it's time to eg brush teeth
- giving him choice in what he wants eg ham sandwich or cheese sandwich
- threatening consequences such as only 2 stories at bedtime not 3
He hates being in trouble but any suggestion that he's going to be in proper trouble means he gets fully hysterical so looking for suggestions that doesn't escalate the situation.
I know this age is all about control but I need some tactics to make the non-negotiables happen without WW3.
Have ordered some star stickers to try a reward chart (particularly for bathtime) but not sure if he'll grasp it as he's yet to really understand asking for some sort of treat/toy.
Help!