My 13-month-old DS (adjusted age due to prematurity) learned to crawl up on the couch today. He was very proud of himself! The first thing he did when he accomplished this task was sit back for a minute like the king of the world and survey his new domain. The second thing he did was suddenly get up and purposefully hurl himself over the back of the couch, plunging head-first toward the floor below. I caught him halfway over and assisted his landing, but he became obsessed with this behavior for the rest of the day.
Up until now, we haven't had to say "no" to our twins. We've simply created a baby-friendly environment in several rooms of our house and they have been free to explore. And/or we will provide a distraction if they attempt something dangerous (like wrestling each other for a toy). But we're thinking it might be time to start setting some boundaries.
We obviously can't allow him to throw himself off the couch. Nor can I stand by the couch all day, poised to distract him if he attempts to do himself in (I need to be free to chase after his twin brother who just learned how to run!) For today, we simply moved the couch to a safe location (away from walls and other furniture) and put big fluffy pillows around the edges in case he tries it while I'm not looking.
But beyond that...I'm obviously new to the whole "discipline" thing. My questions: is 13-months too young to understand not to do something? And how exactly does "gentle discipline" work in this situation? How do I get my point across to him? I know my mother would advise me to look him in the eye, say "NO" in a stern voice, and remove him from the couch. I actually tried that a few times, but it didn't feel like he was understanding. He mostly just seemed frustrated and would cry in protest for a minute, then go back and climb up on the couch again. Is that just the way it goes with toddlers?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions you might have.
Up until now, we haven't had to say "no" to our twins. We've simply created a baby-friendly environment in several rooms of our house and they have been free to explore. And/or we will provide a distraction if they attempt something dangerous (like wrestling each other for a toy). But we're thinking it might be time to start setting some boundaries.
We obviously can't allow him to throw himself off the couch. Nor can I stand by the couch all day, poised to distract him if he attempts to do himself in (I need to be free to chase after his twin brother who just learned how to run!) For today, we simply moved the couch to a safe location (away from walls and other furniture) and put big fluffy pillows around the edges in case he tries it while I'm not looking.
But beyond that...I'm obviously new to the whole "discipline" thing. My questions: is 13-months too young to understand not to do something? And how exactly does "gentle discipline" work in this situation? How do I get my point across to him? I know my mother would advise me to look him in the eye, say "NO" in a stern voice, and remove him from the couch. I actually tried that a few times, but it didn't feel like he was understanding. He mostly just seemed frustrated and would cry in protest for a minute, then go back and climb up on the couch again. Is that just the way it goes with toddlers?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions you might have.
Besides, by doing this, he has your undivided attention from his brother! I'm sure better GD mamas than myself will pop in here soon. Otherwise, good luck!
Like if your baby is trying to put something in the wall socket gently remove them saying no. There's no need to be mean about it.
