The myth

So I have very recently learned that the terrible two's are not a myth that parents use to try to scare us from having sex too young. Since about 18 months my son has had a major attitude but nothing I couldn't control then it was like a light switch at 2. This kid seriously is like the Hulk. He is just a nice calm little gentleman then all of the sudden something sets him off and he turns colors and I'm sure he could tear off his clothes if I let him. So what do I do? Well that depends on each situation.

My son really prefers to be outdoors so sometimes his fits are simply because he would rather not go into the store or restaurant, in which case I have to let him scream it out inside. I know that many people would rather I take him out where he is not bothering them, but I have to teach him that sometimes we have to stay inside. I try to apologize but most people are pretty understanding even you think they are not. Now, in some instances he does have to be taken out to calm down. I have found that in my case he needs to go directly to the car and in his car seat, at least for a few minutes.

I know that I often overreact to the tantrums and fits, and feel people are looking at me like I'm bad parent, I think most parents probably feel this way at some point. I think for me the biggest issue is that people my parents age still look at you with the "that kid needs a good swat on the butt" look, and they don't understand that is not an option. So I just have to remind myself to take a deep breath, give my son a hug, try not to cry in Wal-mart, and finish what I'm doing and go about my day.