We’ve entered a delightful phase of toddlerhood in our home… testing boundaries. It’s the stage where you firmly say “no” to your baby or toddler, and they laugh and repeat the behavior with even more enthusiasm. When you say “no” to hitting, they do it again regardless of the tone or volume you use. They chase after things they know they shouldn’t have because it becomes a game, and suddenly they become very clever in their sneaky approach.

They’re growing into their free will, learning about their limits, making new neural connections, and discovering the power of their actions. They’re not being bad or manipulative—they’re simply learning how the world works and how and where they fit in it.

So what are we to do as parents?

• Be consistent. Even if that means saying “no” to the same thing 50 times. Healthy boundaries help your baby or toddler grow up in a balanced and safe environment. Without boundaries, children can feel anxious because they’re constantly trying to figure out where the line is. When the line keeps moving, it becomes harder for them to learn, develop, and build self-control.

• Stick to your boundaries. As individuals and as a family unit. If you don’t, you’re setting yourself up for struggle later on. Boundaries and limits shape your child and will follow them for life.

• Do yourself a favor. Build a strong foundation for your baby or toddler and your family today. Don’t dismiss behaviors now just because they’re little, cute, or you don’t want to be “that” parent.

• It won’t always be easy. There will be moments of frustration where you feel like pulling your hair out. There will also be moments where you have to fight back a laugh or a smile while correcting behavior that is, honestly, a little funny. That’s part of it.

But this stage matters. What you do now lays the groundwork for who they become. It’s not always easy, but neither is fixing it down the line.

With patience, consistency, and love
— The No Bull Mommy