Your child is a person deserving of respect, but you are the teacher and leader in the family. During this period, the child learns a great deal about social roles and develops motor skills. This age is sometimes referred to as 'the terrible twos', because of the temper tantrums for which they are famous.

Toddler behavior can be surprising, frustrating, and often out-of-control. But once you establish a pattern of discipline that works, you'll spend less time scolding and more time enjoying your tot.