toddler tantrums

[Judy7]

Can anyone help? I have just gone on maternity leave (expecting number 2 in 3 weeks) and was looking forward to spending time with my angelic toddler who hadn't seen much of me lately due to working such long hours. But over the last few days he has started throwing major tantrums, refusing to let me change his nappy or dress him. When his dad (who fortunately works from home)takes over, he's good as gold. I'm not sure if it's a reaction to suddenly seeing so much more of me or what but I'm getting seriously worried as I don't know how I'm going to cope with him when the new baby arrives. Any advice?

[laundrylover]

Not really advice but sympathy!
DD1 was exactly the same when she turned 2 a month before DD2 arrived at the end of March. Just carry on with the usual behaviour advice (stay calm, ignore the bad etc.) and it will pass I reckon.
We are all much calmer now a few months on but have had a good few shouting matches and tears in the meantime.
You will cope - it just may not seem like you are at times!!!

[Adorabelle]

Hi Judy7, not really got any advice but can sympathise with you.

My dd, 2.2, is (generally) a pleasure to be with
but recently has started having the odd tantrum.

This involves anything from screaming SO loud it can be heard a mile away (am not exagerating) to
throwing self on floor in supermarket & refusing to get up, even if I walk out of her eye line.

Would ignore all tantrums if possible, but with regard to nappy & dressing tantrums i'd say Stay Calm (deep breathing does work, in & out, in & out!)
Until tantrum is over completely ignore him & when he's calmed down give him Big hugs & kisses.

May sound easy, but believe me I know it's not, but I have found ignoring my dd when she's cross
& tantruming is the best way to diffuse the situation. Good Luck

[shatteredmumsrus]

it does sound like its because of the sudden change in you being home and maybe talk of this 'new brother or sister'. My son started behaving oddly before the new arrival too but didnt last and i was so worried about it.Just involve him as much as possible and make the most of the time you have together because there wont be much after the birth. Im sure he will adapt, kids too.Try not to overload him on the new barrival either, it seemed to bore my son.Still does after 2 years!

[Adorabelle]

Nice comment shatteredmum, maybe the imminent arrival of a new baby is having an adverse effect

I only have the 1 (of which i'm thankful for at the mo!) so I didn't have the same thought as you!