5 Days to Christmas

Ethan is so excited that Christmas is coming in 5 days. We brought him to the mall and have taken picture with Santa. He is learning stuff fast .. he is learning how to count from 1 to 10 in both Cantonese and English. He also learns how to say "I love you" in Mandarin. During this stage, many warned about the "terrible twos," look for new signs of assertiveness from your toddler. Hallmark behaviors to watch for: He may insist on doing exactly what you've told him not to do or throw himself down on the floor in a fit of temper if he doesn't get his way. His demands may alternately frustrate and amuse you. At times, for example, he'll likely ask for something that he doesn't even want, just to see if he has enough power to get it.

Expert suggests that the best thing to do during a temper episode is keep your cool, stay close to your child, and let him release his feelings. A hug and a shoulder to cry on may be all that some toddlers need to feel better, while others may benefit from the distraction technique — offer him another activity or toy. We usually try the latter if Ethan decides to throw one himself.