My youngest son is lovingly called a hurricane. He is like a moth to a flame for anything sharp, hot, expensive, or fragile. He can break anything in record speed. Countertops, step stools, cabinets, and couches, you name it and my son has either fallen off or on top of it. Every day can be a challenge, but some days are Category 5. Hurricane H is on the loose and no one is safe. Today was one of those days. We got home and he tripped over his shoes as he tried to take them off as he hit his head on the cabinet. Then while making dinner, he fell off the step stool while trying to get off the potty. Many tears were shed. What do you do on these days? We have all had days like this where our child is just not having it. They are overtired, emotional, and accident-prone. How do you survive these nights?
For me, I have found a few things that have seemed to help. I like to have several solutions in my arsenal because depending on the day, you never know what will work.
Low-sensory, simple activities: Many times toddlers have so many emotions that they are unable to identify and properly process. Having activities that can serve as a distraction while not overly stimulating them is the best place to start. A coloring book with just a few crayons works well. The Yoto audiobook player also is a great option. I like to have a few of his favorite story cards available to keep things simple. I love this beaded rainmaker. Both my boys have enjoyed them from an early age. The sound is very soothing and watching the beads fall is mesmerizing for the boys. There is also a liquid bubble version that doesn't make noise found here.
Keep them close to you. For example, tonight I kept him in the kitchen while I was cooking. This helps you keep an eye on them to prevent mischief or possible triggers from setting them off.
Start bedtime routine early. Everything takes longer with an overtired and emotional child. Stress to get things done quickly will only enhance the anxiety of the evening. Give yourself and your child plenty of time to get through the bath, teeth brushing, and getting on their PJs. The calmer things are, the smoother it will be. Also, things can be unpredictable and deteriorate quickly. The more ready you are for bed, the better.
Take extra time for cuddles. I love reading their favorite book and taking time to talk about how their favorite characters might feel. Understanding how I feel and the best ways to show those emotions is challenging even for me, so I like to take time to help my child understand their big feelings.
Tuck them into bed and retreat to your happy place with a cup of tea and your favorite book to decompress. It can be very tough to have an evening full of toddler meltdowns. Staying calm around a screaming toddler who seems to always find new and creative ways to get into trouble is taxing. Take the time to recharge. Healthy mommas raise healthy babies.
Breathe in....and breathe out. Category 5 days are no joke. Just remember we all have them and we will all survive them. We can do this. You are not alone. Share your Category 5 day and your favorite remedy below.
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