I started disciplining Cooper from birth basically. OK, maybe telling and demonstrating what I expect from him would be more accurate. When he did something like pull hair etc, I would take his hand to make him look at me and say no because ....... (i.e. that hurts mummy or that is not nice etc). You have to be consistent but they will understand eventually and often a lot earlier than I thought he would be able to.

The key for me was consistency (doing it every time and getting DH to follow my lead if it happened with him) and trying never to lose me temper (which was sometimes very hard!). You show that you expect a certain level of behaviour and expect it all the time. They are kids, they will push boundaries and play up but if they know what is acceptable, then the majority of times are good times.

Oh and the most important part of all is PRAISE. When Cooper does something right (even if it is a small thing in the middle of a horrendous day), he knows it. He gets kisses, cuddles, words like good job, great, that was fantastic, you are so smart etc. He lights up because he knows that I am proud of him and it was easy for him to do so it encourages him to do it again.

It has worked beautifully. Cooper is generally a well-behaved little boy though we still get the tantrums etc. After all he IS 2 next month.

Good luck