Question

I have a baby boy of 18months. He is always beating others and don't listen when you stop him and what kind of food he will like cause he is always crying when you feed him.

Answer

PARENTING

At 18 months old your son is still very much a baby. He needs very gentle, yet firm, handling. At this stage, it is normal for toddlers to become aggressive towards other children - this is the only way they can really express their feelings - because they do not yet have adequate verbal skills. Never treat him aggressively for this behaviour - it will only make it worse. Tell him, very firmly, that this is not a nice way to behave, and then remove him from the area. Keep him away from the others for a few minutes and then allow him to go back. If he repeats this, then you firmly take him away again - for a longer time.

Make sure that he has adequate supervision - toddlers of this age need a great deal of attention. I am not sure what you mean by the food issue. But never make eating a power struggle. Eating should be a natural function. Give him finger foods and get him to sit in a chair. Do not force him to eat - but gently encourage him to try what you have given him. If he refuses to eat, simply remove the plate and dont give him any attention for his eating habits.A healthy child will always eat when he is hungry. Do not give him junk food snacks - if he wants a snack, make sure it is a healthy one.

Just remember that both these questions are perfectly normal behaviours for a child this age - try not to over-react - this will only make things worse. Good luck.

Regards

- Anne Cawood