As a parent, I’ve reached a point where I no longer feel the need to excessively apologize for my toddler’s hitting behavior. My previous experiences as an educator in diverse environments—from inner-city schools to an orphanage in rural India—have shaped my understanding of child behavior. I’ve encountered students facing various challenges, including impulsivity and aggression, and I often wondered about their home lives, assuming they were filled with neglect, excessive screen time, and a lack of structure.
Now, as a mother, I find myself in a similar situation. My son, like many toddlers, can exhibit behavior that is less than desirable, and I’ve come to terms with it. I strive to create a nurturing and stable environment for him, filled with routines and social activities. He attends daycare weekly and participates in “Mom and Me” classes, designed to meet his social needs and provide me with some well-deserved peace. Our home practices are clear: we don’t hit, shove, or push.
Despite this, my toddler has still picked up hitting as a way to express himself. The past few months have been particularly challenging for me—though not necessarily for him. He seems oblivious to the impact his actions have on others. Every trip to a playground ends with him shoving or hitting other children, especially if they take too long on the slide or dare to eat a blueberry he deems his own. In earlier days, I would have been mortified, apologizing profusely to the parents of the “victims” while feeling ashamed and powerless.
However, I’ve had an important realization: my son is simply a typical, developing toddler. He is clever, energetic, and loves deeply. He hits, and that’s a part of his learning process. He is not malicious or naughty; he is exploring how to navigate the world, and at this stage, physical actions are often easier for him than verbal ones. While I understand that hitting is not acceptable, I’ve decided to address the behavior calmly and move on, rather than spiraling into guilt and self-blame.
I now embrace my strong-willed, ambitious child, seizing every opportunity to teach him alternative ways to express his feelings and to communicate kindly. I refuse to let guilt dictate my feelings about his behavior. Instead, I choose to be his strongest advocate and most loving teacher. This journey of parenting is filled with challenges, but it’s also filled with learning and growth for both of us.
If you’re navigating similar experiences, consider exploring resources like this excellent guide on pregnancy and home insemination, and for more on self-insemination, check out this insightful post. Additionally, for a practical parenting solution, look into the Canvas Rucksack Diaper Bag Backpack, which can make outings with your little one much easier.
In summary, parenting a toddler can be a complex journey filled with moments of frustration and joy. Understanding that hitting is a part of their developmental phase allows us to approach these situations with more patience and intention. Let’s focus on teaching them kindness and communication, rather than feeling ashamed of their behavior.