2. Give Independence But Teach Consequences
Wow, that was a wordy title. Basically it means that it’s ok to ask your child if they want to be carried, ride in the stroller or walk. If they choose to walk, give them simple instructions to stay by you. If they choose not to listen, immediately take away their ability to walk alone by strapping them back in the stroller or cart. We have a rule that if my daughter wants to walk in the parking lot, she has to hold my hand. If she doesn’t want to, then she gets picked up. It’s your job to make sure your child understands the rules of being independent and that you don’t want them to get hurt. Be consistent! If you constantly find yourself still picking up your toddler, that’s ok. They might not be ready, so give it another try in a few weeks.
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Karly Wood
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