Toddler hood is an ever-changing period of highs and lows for parents. I have been through the toddler phase four times now and am still wouldn't consider myself an expert! Nevertheless, I have learned some valuable lessons over the past 19 years. One thing that stands out to me is that there are 10 things about toddlers you weren't warned about during that pre-childbirth class you took, LOL. 
10 Things About Toddlers You Weren't Warned About
I am a planner and prefer to go into new situations armed with as much information as possible. The problem is that parenting just isn't like that. Reading the best parenting books may not prepare you for the REALITY of what life is really like with a toddler in the house.
Some people would even venture to say that you are no longer running the show….your toddler is in charge! 😆
I want to prepare you for what is to come as best I can by drawing from my own experiences as a mom!!! So here goes..
They Have a Mind of Their Own
You know by now that even babies have a mind of their own, but it really becomes clear when they are toddlers. They want things done their way or else a big tantrum may ensure. Two of my children are what experts would call “strong-willed” and that made the whole mind of their own thing even worse. Even in an agreeable toddler you will see their personality and wants start shining through.
Bodily Functions Can Be Time-Consuming
Potty training is in full force during the toddler stage. Depending on the child this can be a daunting task. Some of my kids were “easy” and some were NOT.
I honestly remember thinking a few things if my child would actually wear diapers to Kindergarten!! Luckily…that rarely happens, LOL. Just stay the course and try new things in your approach. Remember that every child is different and what worked for one won't work for another.
They Can Say the Word Mommy a Million Times a Day
The word mommy can be the sweetest sound you hear from your child….until you have heard it a million times in one day. I think toddlers could easily win a Guinness book record for saying the same word over and over and over and over again.
Messiness if an Understatement
Tiny tornadoes is an accurate description of a toddler. I have always been amazed at how quickly our house could go from tidy to disaster zone. It almost happens in the blink of an eye.
My advice is to relax and accept that the house won't be perfect for a while. There are always bigger fish to fry. Just be glad your child is playing with toys and doesn't have their face in an electronic device yet!
Starvation Mode Can be the Norm
Toddlers don't usually like to sit down for a big meal. They are MOVERS and SHAKERS and want to eat on the go. There were days when I couldn't get my toddler to eat hardly anything. Surprisingly, they never lost weight or became unhealthy.
Their bodies seem to know when to eat and when they don't need to. There is also a tendency to hyper focus on a handful of foods. One week my daughter wouldn't eat anything except cottage cheese!
They are as Stubborn as a Mule
Toddlers are extremely stubborn. I have gone toe to toe with my toddlers before and sometimes I just give up!!
That sounds really bad, doesn't it…but when you get in that situation you realize…hey this fight isn't worth the effort!! Picking your battles should be your theme during the toddler years.
Nonstop Energy Really is a Thing
If you were around me in person you would hear me say I wished I had more energy. I have needed more energy for the past 19 years, LOL. Guess who is NEVER lacking in energy…..a toddler! It is AMAZING how much energy they have in their little bodies!!
They do crash hard though!
Matching Clothes are Out the Window
Remember the first one on the list of 10 things About Toddlers You Weren't Warned About…the whole mind of their own thing….that translates directly into getting them dressed…or NOT getting them dressed!
My toddlers all liked to run around without clothing on. Their favorite outfit was their birthday suit, LOL. I was lucky to get them into some undies.
They also love to pick their own clothes and I will give you a hint…they probably won't match! This is another battle you have to decide if you want to fight.
They Will Amaze You Every Day
As difficult as toddlers can be…they are also amazing little humans. They are changing all the time and they learn SO FAST. There are so many adorable moments to absorb as they start doing something else new.
Toddlers are just plain fun to be around!! Enjoy all the milestones they will be reaching during these short years.
They Adore You
Toddlers ADORE their parents. Their love is so complete and total it is hard to believe some days. They are able to forgive our parenting flaws so fast.
Parent…I am telling you from experience…BASK in this adoration of your toddler…because soon enough they will be a teenager and that adoration will probably evaporate!
The Days are Long but the Years are Short
Remember that the days are long but the years are short…so take it all in while you can! You found out about the 8 Things About Babies You Weren't Warned About…and now you know about toddlers. You are SET for a few years!!
What are your biggest challenges with your toddlers? What is your favorite part of this age?
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