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Time to Go
Ending Playgroup on a High Note
By Melinda Copp
"When you know you have to move on, do what is necessary and don't be put off by your toddler's feelings," Smestad says. "They have a right to get angry. Just stay calm and understand their feelings." Then when your toddler's emotional outburst begins to subside, likely when you're in the car on the way home, you can offer him some juice or another distraction.
When you're consistent with this routine, your toddler will understand that good things are waiting for her at her next activity and screaming won't ever change Mom's mind. Her emotions are valid and acceptable, but expressing them in a fit is not. This routine will also build trust in you as a parent.
"Your toddler will see that Mom's word is good, and he can count on you to be consistent," Smestad says.
The toddler years are dubbed the "terrible twos" for a reason – toddlers are curious, stubborn and never think twice about expressing their frustrations. But that doesn't mean toddlers and their outbursts are impossible to manage.
When the end of playgroup nears, start getting yourself ready and prepare to make a fast exit. Give your child a warning and fill him with a vision of where he is going. And then don't dawdle when it's time to leave. This may not completely eliminate your toddler's protests right away, but it will help ease the transition from one activity to another and program your child for success in the future.
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