At my wits end with a toddler that won't listen

[bingsulaflop]

I know this may be a common thread but I just need a place to vent!

My DS just turned three in august but for the last day three weeks has been a NIGHTMARE!

He was a wonderful little boy and when he's being really well behaved he's absolutely amazing but the odd times I just can't get him to listen to me, my DP has no problem with having a "stern" voice and be does exactly what he's told but knows I just can't seem to discipline him and I end up stressed and exhausted.

His speech isn't that good, he's currently waiting for a speech and language consultation for this. But whenever we go anywhere I end up embarrassed and tearful as it's just awful, he runs away from me, looks totally engrossed in something else when I try to speak to him / tell him that's dangerous etc.

I'm completely at my wits end and every outing end up in tears (from me usually) as I just feel like a failure as a parent.

Any advice on what to do?

With small children sometimes you need to gain their attention first by saying their name as you touch them (eg their arm) as they really are absorbed in what they are doing, the touch on their arm catches their attention.