Parenting reaches a new and challenging level when your child begins school.  For me, well the ultimate challenge was when my son Jayden had to switch to a different school mid-year.  However, it was already a struggle in September when my 5 year-old entered Kindergarten, it had just gotten progressively worse. 

Since Day 1, Jayden struggled with following directions.  This comes with the territory of him being a toddler that much I knew.  But what I didn't know was how to deal with it.  His behavior got me thinking about how to correct this problem in school and at home.  It was a big problem at home, Lord knows we still have our days.  But I was able to implement positive discipline which helped Jayden transform his bad behavior into good behavior.

First and foremost, I needed to correct my attitude.  I was getting so frustrated with him for not listening that I would lose my cool and it would only make matters worse.  I have even come to the realization that I ultimately have to lower my expectations.  After all, he is only five and while he is learning about the world and how to communicate in it, there are still going to be "those days".  Some other helpful tips to help adjust a toddler's behavior I learned from Parenting.com..... Hope this helps you too!

Be calm

Be confident

Be connected

Avoid negativity

Congratulate good behavior

Issue gentle reminders

Present choices

Don't ask, tell.

Invite input

Count to ten

Say "please" & "thank you"

Focus your message

Follow through