It can be tough when your toddler interrupts you every two minutes. You try to reply to an email, but then your little one shows up needing juice, a snack, or help with a toy.
It feels like nothing ever gets done, your to-do list keeps growing, and your patience wears thin. You just want a few quiet moments to yourself.
Why This Behavior Happens
A therapist at Mother.ly points out that when kids seek attention, it's their way of asking for love, support, and care. They're not trying to manipulate you; they're simply communicating their needs.
It's important not to ignore a child seeking attention, as that can worsen the situation. When kids have genuine needs, ignoring them often fuels negative behavior instead of addressing the root cause.
Children may not always understand their own feelings or actions, so they rely on adults to help them figure things out. Seeking help often shows up as challenging behavior.
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What Works Right Now
To manage attention-seeking behavior effectively, start by giving your child the attention they're asking for. Show them love, appreciate their talents, or simply listen to them. Addressing their needs early helps prevent escalation.
Empathy is crucial. You might say, "I can see you're having a tough time right now." This validates their feelings without needing to solve everything immediately.
If your child seems bored, try saying, "Hey, looks like you're a bit bored. Want someone to play with?" Just acknowledge what they might be needing.
Help your child learn to ask for attention in a positive way. Instead of whining, suggest they say, "Hey Mom, can we play a game?" Teaching them the right words is key.
Be patient when they get noisy or act up. Remember, it’s their way of showing they need something - not trying to drive you crazy.
Prevention Strategies
Here are some ways to help prevent attention-seeking behavior:
Spend quality time with your child daily, like 15 minutes of one-on-one play without distractions. Let them choose the activity to build a stronger bond.
Teach your child a signal, such as holding up a finger, to indicate when they need you. Acknowledge their signal and respond promptly within a couple of minutes to build trust.
Encourage independent play with activities like puzzles or coloring. Start with short sessions (5 minutes) and gradually increase the time.
Praise your child specifically when they play alone, e.g., "You played with your blocks all by yourself for 10 minutes - that’s awesome!" Positive feedback reinforces good behavior.
Set aside quiet time every day. Encourage your child to relax in their room with books, quiet toys, or gentle music. They don’t have to nap, just get used to being alone.
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Calm Toddler Hacks provided by Chilkibo Publishing, helping families find their calm with trusted strategies.