losing patience with toddler!

[littlelara]

Hi, I went through the same thing.
Best I could do is try to make sure there was plenty of engagement for dd that didn't involve me.
So have the grandmother over more often (or even better, send her there), get out of the house with her and take her on playdates, it never seemed as bad if we weren't at home.
Otherwise every time I needed her to do something (come for a changed nappy, meal, anything) she would literally run in the other direction, and I'd just get angry.
hth

[Rachella]

thanks all. nice to know i am not alone.
bought some new playdough, colouring books etc... that helps a little re distractions.
Generally though, things seem worse not better (ie tantrums - yes, I agree I think he knows I will give in sooner) Baby is tiring me out already (only 24 weeks)as sleeping is awkward, with lots of kicks in bladder.

Any other advice would be great!!

[BellyBelly]

Sounds very normal to me!!! I don't know if there is much you can do about it but change the way you deal with it / think about it. I know the last year before my daughter started school was very trying, she was so ready and I wasn't up to stimulating her as much as I could as I was so exhausted! It is hard work.

Two books which will give you plenty of great ideas:

The Science of Parenting by Margot Sunderland
Toddler Tactics by Pinky McKay

Can you also try extra care for her so you can have a rest and get less frustrated? Occasional care or something like that? Or take her to a play centre once a week and let her run riot while you have a cuppa?

[Rouge]

Consistancy and boundaries. Whilst I know you might not have the energy but maybe establish a "thinking spot" for quiet time when he isn't listening. We have the thinking chair and the thinking step in our house and it sure does stop me from blowing my lid (yes sometimes I'm not perfect) but it gives them time out and me time out so I can calm down LOL! I know it sounds harsh but you need to try and establish some boundaries now, because its even harder when bubs is here. Paris was 3 when I was pg with Seth (nearly 4) and we went through similar power struggles. I just made sure I took more time to communicate, follow through with promises (be it promises of attention or consequences of actions) and try to have some quiet activity time together daily, where you can sit down and do something together. Even if its puzzles, or watching their favourite show in bed. I used to nap a lot during pregnancy so when I would have a nap we'd lie in bed and have "chatters" and talk about all sorts of things, some days we'd just talk about fantasies (when I grow up my house will be...) or even just eye spy. But then you are getting the rest and they are getting the quality time.

Goodluck Its hard I know but there is light at the end of the tunnel.