Yes, we have officially reached the stage of temper tantrums. Maybe a little early, but Alyssa has done everything early from the moment she came into this world, so I can't say I'm surprised.
Today was one of those days that takes all your will-power to discipline and not give in. Sam and I had been rotating between time-outs and not giving attention when she throws a tantrum. But today, even after 1 time-out, there she was throwing a fit on the floor. Crying and waving her hands and legs, this went on for over 20 minutes. It seriously took everything within me not to start crying too. Even though I knew she was fine, it is heartbreaking to see my beautiful daughter so upset and beside herself, with red eyes that are starting to grow very tired. Even after a few "Alyssa, come to mommy"' 's, she wasn't budging. By that time I knew if I went to her and picked her up I'd be letting her know that if she cries long enough she'll get her way.
Alyssa has been learning quite a few words, so we have really been working on her using those words rather than whining. When it's time to get out of the crib she needs to say "up, please", or when she is done eating and wants to get out of the highchair she needs to say "all done". So I am well aware that she is capable. But in the heat of the moment my heart is arguing with my brain saying "but she's just a BABY!!!!!!"
After about 20 minutes of her tantrum this morning, Alyssa finally came over, stopped crying, and curled up in my lap. I was relieved it was over, and happy I hadn't given in, but most of all, I was finally happy I could hold her close.
I wish I could say the rest of the day has gone smoothly. Like I said, it's the temper tantrum phase here in this household. Alyssa is such a smart, strong-willed child that I know we will have so many moments of enjoyment with. I am just praying really hard that we do this parenting thing right. I thought it was scary when we brought her home, but when you truly realize how your decisions can really affect how they grow up, then it gets REALLY scary.
Today was one of those days that takes all your will-power to discipline and not give in. Sam and I had been rotating between time-outs and not giving attention when she throws a tantrum. But today, even after 1 time-out, there she was throwing a fit on the floor. Crying and waving her hands and legs, this went on for over 20 minutes. It seriously took everything within me not to start crying too. Even though I knew she was fine, it is heartbreaking to see my beautiful daughter so upset and beside herself, with red eyes that are starting to grow very tired. Even after a few "Alyssa, come to mommy"' 's, she wasn't budging. By that time I knew if I went to her and picked her up I'd be letting her know that if she cries long enough she'll get her way.
Alyssa has been learning quite a few words, so we have really been working on her using those words rather than whining. When it's time to get out of the crib she needs to say "up, please", or when she is done eating and wants to get out of the highchair she needs to say "all done". So I am well aware that she is capable. But in the heat of the moment my heart is arguing with my brain saying "but she's just a BABY!!!!!!"
After about 20 minutes of her tantrum this morning, Alyssa finally came over, stopped crying, and curled up in my lap. I was relieved it was over, and happy I hadn't given in, but most of all, I was finally happy I could hold her close.
I wish I could say the rest of the day has gone smoothly. Like I said, it's the temper tantrum phase here in this household. Alyssa is such a smart, strong-willed child that I know we will have so many moments of enjoyment with. I am just praying really hard that we do this parenting thing right. I thought it was scary when we brought her home, but when you truly realize how your decisions can really affect how they grow up, then it gets REALLY scary.
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