Instead of shouting as your toddler flings a bowl full of macaroni and cheese to the floor, simply take the bowl away and explain the reason why he shouldn’t throw food. Use this calm, explanatory approach when your little one starts bouncing on the bed in the late hours by saying, “Beds are for sleeping and relaxing, not for jumping.” But if he takes a sip of milk without protest, acknowledge the good behavior with a compliment.
Most kids hate to be told what to do, some more than others. But if your child hears you reflect out loud what he should want and feel, this will help raise his self-awareness and feel seen, acknowledged, and understood. This is empathy." Ask if you can join in and model the proper way to play with others.