Toddler stage - tough!

[SassyCrab]

I’m really struggling with MH since my toddler has become two, I’m finding it extremely difficult more so than the newborn stage. Constant tantrums when put to bed, brush teeth, out in public, getting dressed everything is hard work. Chucking his toys, throwing himself at me where it starts to hurts, hitting the poor dog. I think where he was such a good and laid back baby, it’s gone from one extreme to another for me and it’s a massive difference! My relationship with his dad is breaking down where I’m constantly moody and moany, but he doesn’t help the situation as he never helps me with anything. I feel like I’m 26 going on 56 and need some advice to come out of this feeling. We have a good life, we’ve been Thailand, turkey and going Disneyland next week but I just don’t know why I feel like this?! Any advice?

You feel like that because toddlers are bloody hard work and from the sound of it you aren’t ever getting a break because his Dad doesn’t pull his weight. For starters he wouldn’t be ‘helping’ by looking after his child and doing housework in his own home. It’s called ‘parenting’ and ‘being an adult’. No wonder you’re moody and moany. I would be too. Ideally he needs to step up. If he really, really can’t do it due to big important job then honestly you’d be better off forgetting the expensive big ticket holidays like Thailand and Disney that are frankly wasted on very young kids and instead use the money to improve your day to day quality of life with paid help. For example, part time nursery/preschool for DS, a cleaner, regular babysitter to get out in the evening, joining a fancy gym with a crèche etc. etc.

DS does go nursery 3 days a week, but it doesn’t really help because my job is stressful too. I’m doing a full time job when I’m part time so it’s demanding and just don’t catch a break. & he does work hard in his job but still can’t expect to spend the weekends and evenings chilling on his phone whilst I’m rushing around. I agree! I feel like the problem lays with my partner and I need to improve my life instead of paying big holidays for a small hit of dopamine which wears off straight away! Thanks for advice 😊