2 Yr Old Acting Out Since Baby Was Born

I'll be honest...

I skipped the time-outs for a good old fashioned spanking.

I'm not proud of it, but after a few repeats he QUICKLY learned not to hit the baby at all.

I'm not a big spanker, trust me. But when it comes to the newborns safety (or his own, like running into the street), I wasn't going to play around.

Take heart--It will get better... but it may get a little worse first (my kid's acting up seemed to peak around 9 weeks when he realized the baby wasn't leaving. before that he actually kinda liked having the kid around).

Seeing as how your message is over a year ago I can only assume that your life got better. I am now in the same situation so I am seeking YOUR advice.... when did it end??? :( I just want to know about how much longer until I get my sweet daughter back instead of the little beast that is insanely jealous of the fact there is a dependant newborn in the house.

As I am reading this, I can totally picture in my mind the times that my 2 year old hits her little sister, the moment she starts crying and I turn around, the 2 year old is hugging her and soothing her. LOL. And the minute my back is turned, wham she smacks her in the face again.

I cannot leave them alone together.

I give them both my time and love and hugs but this is another stage that I hope passes quickly. I am constantly saying No, dont hit her, it hurts. It hurts me too. But she knows what she is doing.

HI my name is K. and I know exactly how you feel. My son is 2 also and we have a newborn too. I've tried everything and nothing works for him. When his dad gets home he gets worse. I don't think he knew that he was doing something wrong, but when I went to the bathroom and left the baby on the floor I came out and he had a pillow over her's and his faces. It scared me to death. Let me know of any good advice. I son't have any for you but I thought I would let you know that you aren't alone.

Hi L.,
I found artical for you.
I hope to use it for myself when the time comes.
Good luck!
http://www.askdrsears.com/html/6/T064200.asp

Laura said it best!
As the adult you can be compassionate and help build the bridge between your two children in a loving and kind way. I think you will be just fine if you use your creative ability to find "bonding" solutions and there's nothing to worry about, those two will learn to love each other very soon. Good luck! - Z

Hi L. -
You sound really frustrated. Here's my advice for a gentle option...
Tell your little boy that your daughter loves him, and remind him of that many times in the day. He needs to build a relationship with your new baby and enjoy her presence to be gentle with her and to stop the tantrums. So far, he doesn't see anything in it for himself, but that's where you can support him emotionally.
As the adult you can be compassionate and help build the bridge between your two children in a loving and kind way. I think you will be just fine if you use your creative ability to find "bonding" solutions and there's nothing to worry about, those two will learn to love each other very soon. Good luck! - Z