To Hopeful:
Oh, boy, the Terrible Twos!
I remember when they hit my kids. And in the reading I did, I learned that a LOT of the temper comes from the fact the kid is just plain frustrated. He or she doesn't have the vocabulary to TELL you what he wants. And Mom isn't the great Mind Reader any more.
Even though the toddler is walking and talking more, he hasn't changed into a miniature adult. He still sees the world from the kid's eye view. And that little body gets TIRED.
Imagine yourself in the too-big world, not being able to speak much of the language, being FRUSTRATED beyond belief, and TIRED on top of it.
I don't know about you, but I think I'd scream, too!
Now, if you are frustrated, tired, and screaming, would a swat on the butt make everything better?
I don't think so.
At home, walk away. The child is venting all that frustration, and you really can't reason with him or her. When the kid finds out he's not controlling the situation, he'll calm down, and then you can try again.
Out in public, pick the child up and LEAVE. If it means leaving the restaurant, leaving the movie, leaving the store, so be it. That is part of being a parent. You will gain the appreciation of everyone around you, and you will also do what is best for the child. Just remember, the Terrible Twos won't last forever, and soon you will be able to enjoy a meal out or a movie in peace.
(to others: I know I'm not being realistic, because the teen years are MUCH worse than the Terrible Twos, but I don't want to overwhelm this poor mother!)
Peace be with you,
~VOW
