2.5 year old doesn't listen to a word I say

[eatsleeprepeat123]

Please tell me it gets better?

My little boy is 2 1/2 and lately he just does not listen to me. I tell him to not kick his baby brother, he ignores me. I tell him not to do something else, he ignores me.

I ask him if he needs the toilet (potty training) and he just ignores me. No yes or no. Just nothing.

It's really frustrating me and my partner and I just don't know what to do?! Any tips?

I know 2 year olds can act up and not listen to everything, but he genuinely doesn't listen to a single thing I say!

I could of written this post about my 18 month old! It's like over night he's turned his listening ears off 😩

Driving me insane the past 1.5 weeks to the point I've booked a hearing test! He had glue ear between the ages of 9-12 months which resolved itself but wondering it's it's returned!

It does get easier! I'm a childminder and specialise in early years behaviour so do have some tips that might help. When you set the boundary (eg I will not let you kick your brother) you can set a physical boundary too. For example, you can gently hold his legs and let him know you will let go when he stops kicking as you need to keep everyone safe. I did this with my own son who took to kicking me whilst I was changing his nappy. Or equally you could pick him up and move him away saying the same thing. Sometimes at this age, using a gentle physical boundary can really show them you're not going to accept it.

I also would say that recognising what's behind the behaviour can really help. For example, is he kicking because it gets your attention? Or is it out of frustration because his brother has a toy he wants? Or boredom? When you can recognise the need or emotion behind it, it can be easier to direct them onto something more appropriate! For example if it was to get your attention you can redirect him by teaching him that if he's wants your attention he can ask you to play etc.

Again, with the ignoring you asking if he needs the potty, I would suggest asking him face to face. Even touching his arm and making sure he's looking at you when he's asking.

It takes time and consistency but you will get there and it does get easier as they get older! Hang in there! And feel free to message if ever you need or wanted to chat about it some more! 😊

@Eyelashwishes that is very helpful thank you! Definitely things I will use to hopefully improve things over time 😊 🤞

No problem, I really hope it helps! Toddlerhood is hard and I'm sure you're doing an amazing job 😘 hang in there!!