Download FREE Practo app
Get ₹200 HealthCash
About My twin toddlers are 2 years old
“My twin toddlers are 2 years old, and I’ve noticed they’re becoming increasingly stubborn and resistant to instructions. How can I understand whether this is normal behavior for their age, and what positive strategies can I use to handle their stubbornness without creating stress for them or us as parents?”
Answers (9)
Get your queries answered instantly with Care AI FREE
20000+ health queries resolved in last month
Consult psychotherapist
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Didn't find the answer you are looking for?
Talk to experienced doctor online and get your health questions answered in just 5 minutes.
+127
Positive behavioural reactions are important from parents and making them feel comfortable in front of you
Don't give them things immediate they ask for try to make them understand calmly
So many ways to handle this situation n again it's the normal behaviour they are showing emotionally n physically
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Hi, Behavioral changes occur as children grow.Children imitate care takers behavior.Make it sure that home atmosphere is free from stress and violence. You can find some activities which will channel their energy . Positive reinforcement can be used.Consult a psychologist for professional help
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Let me tell you something brother. There is absolutely nothing to be worried or anxious about as this tendency is very common, concerning to kids in general and more specifically in your case because you have twins. You should rather just enjoy the journey. It is very common to have stubbornness at this age for kids whether twins or not. With regard to how to handle it, it is a parenting journey. You can consult with me for some guidance in that space and I’d suggest both of you as parents to just relax :) if there are specifics you’d like to share would be happy to consult you.
Next Steps
Consult with me for a one on one
Answered
Flag this answer
1/2 people found this helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
It's very common for them to behave in that way..they are exploring...engaging them with nature will be helpful.
Next Steps
consult
Health Tips
connect
Answered
Flag this answer
3/4 people found this helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Hi,
It's completely natural for 2-year-old toddlers to become more stubborn and test boundaries as they develop their independence. This behavior is a normal part of their growth and exploration. To understand whether this is typical, remember that at this age, children are learning to assert themselves and may resist instructions as they navigate their growing sense of autonomy. To handle their stubbornness positively, use strategies such as offering choices to give them a sense of control, setting clear and consistent boundaries, and using gentle but firm language. Praise their good behavior and efforts, and try to stay calm and patient during challenging moments. Engaging them in activities they enjoy and giving them plenty of love and attention can also reduce resistance. Remember, patience and understanding are key, and this phase will pass as they learn and grow.
Next Steps
Consult with a child psychologist
Health Tips
seek help
Answered
Flag this answer
1/2 people found this helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
It’s very common for two-year-olds to show increased independence, assertiveness, and even resistance. This phase is often called the ‘terrible twos’ — but really, it’s a healthy part of their emotional and cognitive development. At this age, children begin to assert autonomy, test boundaries, and express preferences.”
Psychological Understanding
Cognitive Growth: They’re learning cause and effect — pushing limits helps them understand rules.
Emotional Regulation: They haven’t yet developed full control over impulses or frustration.
Language Limitations: Tantrums or stubbornness may arise from struggles to express needs.
Next Steps
Positive Strategies for Parents
1. Offer Choices (Promotes Autonomy)
Instead of giving a command, give a limited choice.
E.g., “Do you want to wear the red shirt or the blue shirt?”
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
Praise cooperative behavior more than you react to defiance.
“I love how you helped clean up your toys!”
3. Keep Instructions Simple
Use short, clear phrases with eye contact.
Toddlers respond better to single-step directions.
4. Routine and Predictability
Predictable schedules reduce anxiety and resistance.
Toddlers thrive on consistency.
5. Name and Validate Emotions
Help them build emotional vocabulary:
“I see you’re angry because we can’t go outside right now.”
6. Model Calm Behavior
Parents staying calm teaches emotional regulation. Avoid power struggles.
Health Tips
About red flags to watch for:
“If the behaviors are extreme — like persistent aggression, self-injury, lack of eye contact, or very limited language use — it’s a good idea to consult a developmental pediatrician or child psychologist for further evaluation.”
What you’re experiencing is a common parenting challenge, and it’s clear you’re attentive and thoughtful. With consistency, empathy, and structure, this phase can be a powerful time of growth for both your children and you as parents.
Answered
Flag this answer
1/2 people found this helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Ms. Rizwana Parvin T M
Counselling Psychologist
7 yrs exp
Coimbatore
Ignore the negative behaviour and give attention and appreciation for positive behaviour
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Ms. Garima Chauhan
Clinical Psychologist
3 yrs exp
Delhi
Hi,
It’s very normal for 2-year-olds to display stubbornness and test limits—it’s actually part of their cognitive and emotional development. This stage, often called the “terrible twos,” is when toddlers begin to assert independence, but lack the emotional regulation and language to express themselves calmly.
The key is not to “control” their behavior but to guide it positively.
Here are a few strategies:
• Offer limited choices: Instead of saying “Put on your clothes,” try “Do you want the red shirt or the blue one?”
• Stay calm and consistent: Toddlers copy your tone and energy. Avoid power struggles.
• Praise good behavior immediately to reinforce it.
• Create routines to provide structure and predictability.
You’re not alone—many parents face this! If things still feel overwhelming, parental counseling or a few parenting sessions can help you build a more peaceful and connected home environment.
Warm regards,
Garima Chauhan
Clinical Psychologist
Answered
Flag this answer
0/1 people found this helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Articles you may like
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
The question asked on this page is a free question. You can ask a free health question by downloading the Practo app.
Articles you may like
Tell us what's troubling you
Tell us what's troubling you
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.