Feeling Parent Burnout? Here Are Top Tips to Survive the Terrible Twos

Parenting is tough, especially with a toddler in the “terrible twos.” If you're feeling burnout, you’re not alone. Here’s how to navigate this challenging phase with some expert advice and a sprinkle of humor.

Embrace the Chaos

First, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed.

Accept Your Emotions: Parenting is hard, and it’s okay to feel stressed, sad, or even frustrated. Acknowledge your feelings without guilt. Sometimes, keeping to yourself in a corner of the house for five minutes of peace is a legitimate strategy.

Talk About It: Share your thoughts with a friend or join a parenting support group. Venting over coffee can be surprisingly therapeutic. Plus, it’s nice to talk to someone who can form complete sentences :)

The Reality of Terrible Twos

Yes, the terrible twos are real, and they’re here to stay for a while.

Expect Resistance: Toddlers love to say “NO” to everything. It’s their way of asserting independence. Think of it as living with a tiny, very opinionated roommate.

Tantrums Happen: Tantrums are a normal part of development. They’re frustrating, but they’re also a way for your toddler to express big emotions. Just remember, even CEOs were once two-year-olds having meltdowns.

Strategies to Manage Tantrums

Here’s how to handle those epic meltdowns without losing your sanity.

Stay Calm: Your calmness can help soothe your toddler. Take deep breaths, count to ten, or imagine you’re on a beach sipping a margarita.

Validate Their Feelings: Acknowledge their emotions. “I see you’re upset because we can’t go to the park right now.” Just try to keep a straight face when they dramatically collapse on the floor.

Distraction Works: Sometimes, a change of scenery or a new toy can divert their attention from a meltdown. Magic trick? No, just parenthood.

Mealtime Shenanigans

Dealing with picky eaters can be an adventure in itself.

Offer Choices: Give your toddler limited choices to make them feel in control. “Do you want apples or bananas?” It’s all about the illusion of power.

Make It Fun: Use colorful plates and cut food into fun shapes. Turn mealtime into a playful experience. Remember, ketchup can make anything more appealing.

Stay Patient: It’s normal for toddlers to have fluctuating appetites. Keep offering a variety of foods without pressure. And when all else fails, cheerios for dinner isn’t the end of the world.

Balancing Grief and Parenting

Grieving while parenting is incredibly tough.

Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist or counselor. Professional help can provide you with tools to cope. Even superheroes need sidekicks.

Create a Routine: Structure can provide comfort for both you and your toddler. It helps to know what to expect each day. Predictability is your friend.

Honor Your Mom: Find small ways to remember your mom. It could be as simple as sharing stories about her with your toddler or keeping a photo album. And hey, a little tribute every now and then can turn into a beautiful tradition.

Considering Daycare

Daycare can be a beneficial option, and it’s okay to need a break.

Social Learning: Toddlers learn a lot from interacting with their peers. Daycare can provide socialization and new experiences. Think of it as a playdate with structure.

Break for You: It’s okay to need a break. Daycare can give you time to recharge and handle your grief. No shame in taking a breather.

Evaluate Options: Visit local daycares to find one that feels right for you and your child. Trust your instincts—you’ve got this.

Self-Care is Crucial

Taking care of yourself helps you take better care of your child.

Find Time for You: Even small breaks can make a big difference. Enjoy a quiet cup of coffee, read a book, or take a short walk. Yes, even if it’s just around the living room.

Connect with Friends: Social connections are vital. Plan a playdate or meet a friend for lunch. Remember, adult conversation is a real thing.

Sleep and Nutrition: Prioritize sleep and healthy eating. Your well-being is important. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Parenting through the terrible twos is tough, especially when dealing with grief. But remember, you’re not alone. With these strategies, you can navigate this challenging phase and find moments of joy and connection with your toddler.

This post is inspired by Reddit user EliaVB’s post.

Ready to start your own newsletter or blog? Sign up for beehiiv and enjoy a 30-day free trial plus 20% off your first three months! (Note: This is an affiliate link, which means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)