The "Terrible Two's"

[sleepybeck]

My son will be 2 next month. His behavior has been very good until a few days ago. He has begun smacking and punching and continuously finding naughty things to do. I am assuming this is the onset of the "Terrible Two's". He usually smacks us or throws something when he gets told off. we assertively tell him "no" and he does it again. Clearly the stern tone of our voices is not doing the job. Should we ignore any subsequent hitting? This behavior seems to occur during meal times as he tends to play with food and find enjoyment in hurling it around the room.
We have not yet experienced the wrath of "The Tantrum"!
I have heard many tales about this fourthcoming period, tbh I am petrified. He has always had a very good innocent nature and is also a sensitive little chap, will this completely change because I have no idea what to expect?
TIA

When he is young he just sees himself as an extension of you-he is now realising that he has free will and can use it! Just take each day as it comes. Don't let him hit or throw-just stop it every time. If he throws food remove it. Try and keep to the positive and make sure that he gets attention that way. Ignore, remove, distract or calmly remove, the negative.

Sorry-too many removes!

If he has a tantrum-ignore completely. When he has calmed down ask him what he wanted, and tell him you can't understand when he screams and shouts.Good luck!

Thank you, that helps. Here's to the next year...lol