Dr Jekyll & Ms. Hyde
“Cheese sandwich is my favorite.”
“No, I don’t like cheese sandwich.”
It is not just her feelings toward the cheese sandwich that are constantly changing. Mommy & the cheese sandwich have a lot in common.
“You are the best mama in the world.”
“I don’t like you, mama.”
What? How could you not like me if I am the best mama in the world? It is difficult not to be confused. Women do change their minds quickly, even the little ones.
The other day daddy had a surprise for her. He brought out a chocolate bar and was going to share it with his little girl. Her face lit up at the sight of the chocolate. My husband broke her off a couple of pieces. The light disappeared from her happy face and her bottom lip began to quiver. Within seconds she quickly began to melt, as did the chocolate she was squeezing in her hand. How could anyone be upset when they are holding chocolate? I tried to talk to her and get to the heart of the problem.
“Mai, tell mommy what is bothering you.”
Silly mommy still thinks she can try to reason with a tantruming 2 year old. Her response was louder screams. After a moment it became apparent what triggered the meltdown. As she grabbed my husband’s mouth and tried to pry it open, it became clear, she didn’t want to share daddy’s chocolate bar she wanted it all to herself. I quietly took a video of her meltdown on my phone and held it out for her to see. “Mai, why is my little girl doing this?” She stopped crying and watched the screen. A big smile came over her face as she brought her chocolate covered hand up to her mouth. As the video ended, she giggled. “Again!” she said laughing and clapping as she pointed to the screen. We have a happy toddler again. Welcome back Dr. Jekyll. Don’t worry Mai. I get upset when I have to share my chocolate too.
Filed under: Life Tagged: family, motherhood, parenting, tantrums, toddler, two year old
