{"id":27180,"date":"2024-10-24T18:00:42","date_gmt":"2024-10-24T18:00:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.may.app\/?p=27180"},"modified":"2025-10-06T12:48:39","modified_gmt":"2025-10-06T12:48:39","slug":"understanding-the-terrible-twos","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.may.app\/en\/blog\/baby-1-year\/understanding-the-terrible-twos\/","title":{"rendered":"Understanding and managing the terrible two"},"content":{"rendered":"

The “terrible two<\/strong>” seems to be an unavoidable stage<\/strong> in a child\u2019s development that can really test a parent\u2019s patience. Yet, this period is not necessarily intense for every child \u2014 and above all, it\u2019s completely normal<\/strong>. This phase of opposition<\/strong>, where \u201cno\u201d becomes part of daily life, is essential for your child to learn to assert themselves and often comes with tantrums<\/strong> and meltdowns<\/strong> that can be hard to manage. How should you react, and how can you help your child through this phase? Terrible twos: let\u2019s take a closer look.<\/p>\n

What is the \u201cterrible two\u201d?<\/h2>\n

The terrible twos phase is a common stage<\/strong> in your child\u2019s development, marked by a period of opposition<\/strong> that usually begins around 18 months<\/strong> and can last until age 3 or 4<\/strong>. Borrowed from the English term \u201cterrible twos,\u201d it describes a phase where the child starts to assert their independence<\/strong> and explore their limits<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

During this time, your child may be more irritable<\/strong>, more sensitive<\/strong>, and may say no to everything<\/strong>: no to taking a bath, eating dinner, coming home from a walk, or leaving the park\u2026 These reactions are natural expressions of frustration<\/strong>. Your child may also cry or scream to express anger or displeasure in a situation they cannot control<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

This phase of opposition is crucial because it helps your child build their own identity<\/strong> and develop social and emotional skills<\/strong>. They are testing the limits set by parents and their environment \u2014 which may seem like excessive or difficult behavior<\/strong> but is entirely normal<\/strong> and part of their growth. Above all, your child is learning to make choices<\/strong> and become an active participant in their own life \u2014 which is invaluable for their future!<\/p>\n

The causes of the terrible twos<\/h2>\n

The terrible twos are often dreaded by parents but are a normal part of development. They are marked by tantrums, tears, and behaviors that may seem like<\/strong> tantrums or \u201cacting out.\u201d<\/strong> Understanding the underlying causes of these behaviors can help you respond more calmly and appropriately.<\/p>\n

The development of independence<\/h3>\n

Your child begins to feel a strong need for independence<\/strong>. They want to do everything on their own and push boundaries<\/strong> set by others. This need is natural and an essential part of identity formation. As child therapist and author Isabelle Filliozat explains, this phase of opposition is a crucial step<\/strong> in helping the child differentiate themselves from their parents and assert who they are.<\/p>\n

Why is independence important?<\/p>\n