Hitting

Laurie Prusso explains:

• Two-year-olds have minimal impulse control and developing language, so hitting is a natural expression of frustration.
• Adam’s behavior is developmentally typical and not a sign of misbehavior.
• Hitting often arises from frustration with other children or not being able to accomplish tasks independently.

• Model kindness consistently; children learn by example.
• Stay calm and respond with gentle redirection and love, even during challenging moments.
• Name feelings to help children identify emotions: “It seems like you are frustrated because you had to wait for your milk.”
• Use a positive time-out space for calming, reading, or cuddling.
• Recognize that frustration is normal; allowing expression of sadness, anger, or jealousy is important.

• Supervise and anticipate moments of conflict, but accept you can’t always intervene instantly.
• Create a special play area for Adam that Ryan cannot access.
• Involve Adam in caregiving tasks for his brother to increase his sense of belonging and significance.
• Plan dedicated one-on-one playtime with Adam when Ryan is napping to reinforce positive interactions.
• Provide opportunities for Adam to accomplish tasks independently (e.g., using a step stool in the kitchen).