Do you treat your baby like an older child?

[prettygirl326]

 I don't understand why some people fill like my 16 month old is ready for hard discipline as if she is a teenager or something! People are always telling me, you need to spank your kid cause she knows better and she is just testing you. Ok, I do believe that toddlers can do that, but she isn't being spiteful or purposely misbehaving to get her way....toddlers do that and she is doing what she is supposed to do! She can't even understand her abcs let alone learn how to control her emotions and things like that. I believe in discipling, but I think it should be fit for the age of the child and the personality traits, provided there are no other issues. My baby also has learning delays at 16 months so she can't really communicate much right now...which is part of the reason she acts out, whine, squeals, etc. She can't talk! So how can she express how she feels? By frustrating actions...it is NORMAL. Am I right?

[jadsmummy]

A child should be treated with the understanding of their development as well as age. Your the mother, you know your child follow your instincts.

[happymommy1105]

Kids should be taught right from wrong.

But a 16 month old doesn't understand complex emotions. She understands her wants and desires.

I always used.to tell my son, "mommy knows you want that right now but we have to learn to wait and have patience. As soon as we can, mommy will get it for you"

Like they need to be taught to name their emotions and that you understand but its just not possible right this moment.