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Toddlers are a force to be reckoned with. Over the years, we have tried our best to deal with their temper tantrums, labeled them as terrible twos, and even called them ankle-biters. Ask any mom, and they would tell you that it’s the most challenging time. It’s that sweet spot where they are no longer a baby but gaining their independence and abusing the use of the word “no”.
You would think that they are the most innocent beings, but in a split second, they would do something to completely prove you wrong. Honestly, we wish they came with a manual so that we knew exactly how to deal with them. But amid all their craziness, they are a lot cooler than we usually give them credit for. Below, we list down ten reasons why you should respect your ankle-biting toddler.
10. Passion
They fight with passion and do not give in no matter what, something we struggle with even as adults. They are not intimidated by anything or anyone. So, if you’re trying to win over an argument with your toddler, don’t use logic or reason, or you’re all set to lose the battle. If you don’t believe us, try telling your toddler he cannot stick his hand in the toilet bowl or why veggies are important. They would scream at the top of their lungs, lie on the floor, or simply say, “But I want (or don’t want) to.”
9. What Social Norms?
Their blatant disregard for social norms is definitely a cool trait that we would like to acquire. How many times have we done something just because we couldn’t say no and didn’t want others to think that we’re mean? But not toddlers. They can show complete nonchalance when a stranger makes funny faces trying to make them laugh. If they don’t find it amusing, they’ll simply walk away or stare at that person with a blank expression on their faces.
8. Athleticism
你能不断运行着破坏性的吗power of a dinosaur, suck your toes, and climb on top of your parents like it’s a piece of cake? And the most intriguing part is that they could do all this when they’re surviving on just vegetable purees and milk products. Hmmm, something to think about.
7. Valor And Determination
No matter how many times you tell them not to do something, they will continue doing it. Whether it is something as silly as picking and eating things off the floor or climbing on dangerously high structures that could injure them, the minute you look away, they would do it and would be beaming with pride over their little achievement. We wish we had the same determination and valor in life.
6. Body Positivity
Unlike us, who struggle to accept and love our wobbly thighs, double chin, naked buttocks, or squishy belly, our little ones have no qualms flaunting them around. It doesn’t matter the time or place; they are always up for running around butt naked without a care in the world. So, if you wanna learn a thing or two about embracing your body with all of its imperfections, observing a naked toddler is key.
5. The Subtle Art Of Manipulation
They have mastered the art of manipulating people into getting their way. They are great at luring us in with sad faces or using classic statements such as, “But dad lets me have it”. And before you know it, you will be fighting with your partner over why you always have to be the bad guy while your toddler disappears into yet another mischief.
4. Born Leaders
Have you ever seen a toddler running behind a parent? Nope, it’s usually the other way around. They make sure that you master the skills of diaper changing, feeding, and burping, and everything in between until you can do it blindfolded. And don’t worry, they will give you enough and more chances to practice and perfect your skills.
3. Practiced Charm
Every time your toddler ruins your precious makeup or destroys your new dress by smudging cake all over it, all they gotta do is laugh hysterically and look innocently into your eyes. And before you know it, all is forgiven, and they will be playing in a corner looking for their next object of destruction while you cry a river inside.
2. Natural Artillery Skills
For somebody who is in their diapers and yet to be potty trained, you will be in the face of a direct frontal assault when you try to put on a new diaper after giving them a bath. It’s like they know they would miss the chance if they waited for a few more seconds to have a secure diaper placed over their butt. Warning: they also showcase unerring aim when it comes to projectile vomiting.
1. Strong Convictions
They have extremely strong convictions, and no matter how much time you spend trying to persuade and convince them, be prepared for failure. They are governed by strong principles that are universal across all babies. For example, if you try to reclaim your phone from a toddler who’s got hold of it, they will claim that they are the owners of it now that it’s in their hands.
Toddlers can be a handful, but you know you’re gonna miss all their craziness, valor, and complete disregard of social conventions when they grow up. So, cherish every moment of the terrible twos.
