I want it, I want it, I want it!

My DS has entered a new phase in his toddler development: The "I want it" phase. This means that he wants everything he can't have. And when he doesn't get it, he throws a tantrum.

This is probably the most frustrating phase he's entered because it's not something that can be easily remedied. Like I said, he wants things he can't have, this includes: Expensive electronics, hot mugs of coffee, the TV remote control, and so on.

How have I dealt with this? How can you deal with a toddler who wants everything? Here are a few things that have helped:

1. Hide everything that your child shouldn't get his/her hands on. The old saying "Out of sight, out of mind" is the best strategy. This is easier said than done, though. Keep everything you don't want your child to get his/her hands on out of sight.

The problem here is that you'll always miss something. And eventually my DS finds something new that he wants. Overall though, I've learned what he'll go after and have just kept them hidden. Since then there have been much less tantrums.

2. Give your toddler what he wants. This might not be the best strategy because you don't want your toddler to think that he/she can have whatever they want. It's a bad precedent to set.

However, there are certain things I give in on. My DS likes to play with his diaper bag. So I take out everything that can be a hazard and let him play with the bag. He likes to take out the extra diapers, a set of extra clothes and empty bottles.

3. Stand your ground. If you can deal with tantrums and a lot of crying, then this might work (although it will take a while). Most toddlers will eventually settle down. Try distracting them with one of their toys, or something new like a piece of Tupperware. I've used this strategy with relative success. It just takes a lot of patience and a higher level of tolerance for a crying toddler.

Hopefully this will give you a few ideas to cope with the dreaded "I want it" phase. Remember that it won't last forever. It's just one more challenge in the parenting experience.

How do you deal with your toddler who wants everything?