In infancy, behaviour that is problematic for parents stems from intrinsic, biological attributes. Colic, excessive crying and fussing are usually attributable to individual biological predispositions, such as particular temperament profiles.

It is often in the toddler period that a child’s behaviour becomes a problem for parents. Temper tantrums, eating problems, problems at bedtime, and aggressive behaviour tax the resources and patience of even the most confident and laid-back parent.

It is often the interaction between the child and his parents that determines how severe the behaviour problems are and whether they are transient or will persist as he grows older. It is normal for toddlers and preschoolers to exhibit behaviour that may be difficult for parents to manage. It is developmentally appropriate for their age to be testing limits as they engage in their struggle to assert themselves as individuals.

Parents who do not have a strategy for how to deal with these behaviours may inadvertently reinforce them, and increase the likelihood that they will persist. Discipline is the setting of sensible but firm limits, in a manner that is sensitive to the individuality and the needs of the child, yet clear and consistent.

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