The Choice Power

I finally figured it out! I finally found the secret to getting my toddler to do exactly what I want her to do, when I want her to do it! Do you want to know the secret? I'm sure you do because this parents, is ground breaking.

I call it the choice power.

One thing I notice about my toddler is that she has this powerful urge to do the exact opposite of what I ask her to do or she just won't do it at all. I'm not sure if you've notice this about your toddler but if you haven't you're welcome to test my theory. 

Ask your toddler to put on their shoes. Ask your toddler to brush their teeth. Ask them to do anything and the answer is most likely 'no.' They say 'no' so often you almost start to wonder if you're better off letting your child turn into Mogli of the jungle. 

Now, ask your child if they want to wear their tennis shoes or their sandals. Ask them if they want to wear the blue shirt or the white shirt. Or go a step further and ask your toddler of they want to brush their teeth or put their pjs on first (yes, this might be out of order of your normal routine but it's just an example).

You just gave your child the power to choose. They now feel like it was their idea and you Moms and Dads just got your child to listen and do what you ask.  

Try the choice power with food, with chores, at bedtime, etc. It works wonders! I recommend getting creative with it too and switch up the choices. Becareful giving too many choices. You don't want the toddler to have all the power. 

Good luck!