How Do I Stop My 2 Year Old Son?

Updated on January 24, 2007
P.W. asks from Albuquerque, NM
4 answers

My 2 year son is having some issues lately...my aunt told my maybe I should see a doctor about ADHD. First, if my son disagrees with something he will scream and next thing you know he throws himself on the floor and is banging his head on the floor. I've stopped him from doing that but next he will scratch up his face until he eventually hurts himself and goes to sleep. I do put him in time-out for 2 minutes but the whole time he's trying to hurt himself...any body else have this issue or is it me?

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A.W.

answers from Albuquerque on

Oh boy, you are not alone. My son will slam his head against the wall, and punch himself in the face(he is 2 as well). I think this is seriously just his way of throwing a fit and trying to test your resolve. And, it's actually a really smart thing for them to do. Because they know that you don't want them to be hurt, so they will get a response.
My advice would be to put him in the safest place possible, keep his nails trimmed, and TOTALLY IGNORE HIM. I know that sounds harsh, but what he is looking for is a response from you of any sort so he can feel like he has some control over his situation. Let him know it won't be tolerated. That seems to have helped ours immensely. (FYI- if the fit happens outside of the home, I leave, put my son in his carseat, and stand outside of the car. That way you don't get a headache from the screams, he's strapped in so he can't do much damage, and he's not getting a response from you)
good luck!

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G.R.

answers from Albuquerque on

You could see your pediatrician about ADHD but they will tell you that it is too hard to diagnose at that early of an age. I would ask the doctor for a advice about handling this behavior though. Your child is testing you...very common at this age. Stay on top of this issue and don't give up! You are the loving adult who wants your child to grow up with respect for people...talk to him when these tantrums happen. I know he's two but he understands!

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P.K.

answers from Albuquerque on

I agree with the other two responses. I would take him to the pediatrician to make sure he is physically ok, and you could take him to a counselor but his behavior sounds more like a mega temper tantrum. I have been using the book Setting Limits How to Raise Respnsible Independent Children by Providing Clear Boundaries. by Robert J. MacKenzie. It has helped me to have some idea about what to do. Good luck. P.

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T.S.

answers from Albany on

First off ADHD has nothing to do with a child throwing a temper tantrum, or hurting himself. I can tell you what my mom was told about my brother who'd hold his breath until he passed out (the same was told to both of my sister-in-laws whose sons do the same thing).

Pick him up and put him in a safe place, I think the playpen was recommended over a crib because they are softer, and ignore him. They do it for attention, positive or negative. Don't comfort him when he wakes up, or make it seem like it was a big deal. Still address the behavior and if a punishment was coming give it to him once he settles down. Also, keep his nails as short as you can. Cut them daily, if need be.

I'd recommend talking to his pediatrician about it. See what his/her advice is. You may also want to make sure that there isn't a neurological issue involved here, but I'd bet it's just your sons way of throwing a temper tantrum.

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