Dear Parents,

we’re often left scratching our heads, wondering if our children’s behaviours fall within the realm of “normal”. Why is our little one crying? Why the sudden screams? And what’s with the dramatic meltdown on the floor over the yellow cup? These questions, among others, have surely crossed our minds at some point since we embarked on this journey of parenthood.

Rest assured, these behaviors are indeed normal—normal in the sense that they’re among the most common experiences shared by children as they navigate the complexities of early development. There’s no one-size-fits-all manual for parenting, as each child is wonderfully unique, and their development unfolds at its own pace, guided by both nature and nurture.

So, how can we, as parents, foster an environment that nurtures our children’s growth and potential? You don’t need a degree in developmental psychology or neuroscience to make a meaningful impact. As parents, we’re equipped with an innate intuition, but a little knowledge about child development and effective support strategies can go a long way.

Drawing from my experience as an educator, parenting coach, and fellow parent, I’ve compiled some insights into the most common challenges in early childhood development, along with practical tips to help both our little ones and ourselves navigate these formative years while preserving our sanity.

One of the biggest hurdles for parents is managing their expectations. Often, our frustrations stem from unrealistic expectations of what our children should or shouldn’t be doing, influenced by societal norms rather than an understanding of developmental science and the importance of attachment in shaping human behavior.

Children are brilliant, but they have underdeveloped brains, lack certain skills, and have limited life experiences.

Let’s take a practical example: the chaotic morning rush before school. Can a four-year-old independently handle tasks like breakfast, getting dressed, and brushing teeth while also adhering to a strict schedule? While they may possess the capability to perform these tasks, their developing brains often require guidance and support.

If mornings often feel like battlegrounds, know that you’re not alone. Children live in the present moment and may not grasp the concept of time or adhere to schedules as adults do. One strategy is to carve out extra time in the morning routine, allowing both you and your child to start the day calmly.

Visual aids, such as a task chart, can provide structure and clarity for children, easing transitions and reducing stress. Having a rhythm that defines and informs our day is also great as Waldorf Education teaches us.

Offering choices empowers children and encourages cooperation. For instance, “Would you like porridge or cereal for breakfast? Red or blue bowl?”

Remember, play is the language of childhood. Incorporating playfulness into morning routines fosters connection and cooperation. A simple game or shared activity can set a positive tone for the day ahead. Being playful while engaging in a task is very helpful. If a child is defiant or struggles in following your direction, try this: “I am a mama bear looking for my little cub. Come, let’s crawl to your room together”.

If choosing clothing in the morning feels like a marathon of stress and indecision, a simple solution might be selecting the outfit the night before, presenting a choice between two options. As for the next task, brushing teeth, let’s turn it into a playful challenge—who can reach the washroom first?

Play is the language of children, and by engaging in it, we pave the way for cooperation. Let’s spend a few minutes building with blocks or reading a book together. Setting a timer for just ten minutes of connection amidst the morning rush lays a solid foundation for smoother separations later on.