When a toddler won't put their coat on on a cold day, it can easily become a battle royale. So what can you do?
Guide them to learn to attune to their bodies. There is a fabulous natural consequence to help teach this lesson. They will get cold and then want their coat. (Make sure you have their coat with you!l The lesson isn't about them listening to you, the lesson is about them learning to listen to their own body.
Good luck out there people.
P.S. if your child is out in the cold and not able to feel the cold but you can tell they are being affected by it, they may be struggling with interception (or the ability to read their bodies cues) which is a signal there may be some neurodivergent wiring such as autism or ADHD and an evaluation with a psychologist could be a helpful next step.
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The video suggests using playfulness as a powerful tool when dealing with toddler refusal and that it is more effective than threats, punishment, or intimidation as it guides, influences, and builds trust while keeping you calm to prevent triggering more resistance.
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Find out why separation meltdowns in small children are completely normal and how separation rituals can help your child feel more secure and in control in this insightful video.
Learn how to handle the endless "why" questions from your child by turning it into a time of imagination, allowing them to wonder and theorize about things, rather than just providing an answer, which can foster a sense of connection and curiosity.
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