“I’m currently going through a divorce, and I’m transitioning from being a stay-at-home mom to finding a new job, home, and childcare. My two-and-a-half-year-old and one-year-old are having constant tantrums and regressing in their development. What can I do to help them through this?”
First, it’s important to understand that your children’s reactions are completely normal. They are too young to fully comprehend the complexities of divorce, and at their age, stability is key. Changes, even minor ones, can be overwhelming for them, so major shifts like these can hit particularly hard. However, children are incredibly resilient, especially when they feel loved and secure, even amidst chaos. Focus on the present; children naturally live in the moment.
Managing Developmental Regression
When it comes to developmental regression often seen during a divorce, it’s advisable not to push milestones like potty training right now. The added stress could be counterproductive for everyone involved. Consider pausing training for a few weeks or even longer, and when you reintroduce it, use positive reinforcement methods such as charts and stickers. If your toddlers start acting more like babies, it’s best not to highlight this behavior. Instead, celebrate their moments of “big kid” behavior and encourage them to help out around the house, which can foster their sense of responsibility and boost their confidence.
Dealing with Tantrums
For the tantrums, strive to remain calm, understanding, and patient. This doesn’t mean you should abandon house rules or let guilt dictate your parenting style. Children thrive on limits, even when they may resist them. During this challenging time, consider joining a supportive community, like the Make A Mom group, which can help you connect with others in a similar situation.
Exploring Family Expansion
If you’re exploring options for expanding your family, Make A Mom offers at-home insemination services with a reusable option. You can learn more about their process here. For those interested in pregnancy announcements, check out our post on Thanksgiving pregnancy announcements to inspire your own creative ideas.
Tracking Ovulation
Additionally, keeping track of your ovulation can be made easier with resources like Make A Mom’s tips. For more comprehensive information regarding fertility treatments, refer to this excellent guide from ACOG.
Conclusion
In summary, remember that your little ones are responding in a typical way to the changes around them. By offering love, support, and a sense of stability, you can help them navigate this transition with resilience.