why are all the 'discipline'/parenting books for kids like 3 & up?

groovygrl

i feel like i can't find anything for the 18 month+ range...

I have happiest toddler on the block & it is all about growling at the kid & I can't get into that, and about time outs, which I'm fine with but don't need to read chapters about...

I have Parenting with Love & Logic. I like the concept but you have to have a kid old enough to understand 'choices' and there is no mention of what to do w/ younger ones in there.

And, I have Kids parents &power struggles and it is kind of like Love & Logic.

Is there anything out there for the under 2 set to help w/ tips about setting boundaries, discipline, dealing w/ their types of situations?

Thx... 

Mrs.Hizzo

I think it's because real discipline isn't developmentally appropriate until around 2.5 - 3. Prior to that, all you really do is redirect or give very short time outs for really concrete stuff like biting. Most of the methods for older kids revolve around manipulating your child in one way or another, and you just can't manipulate an 18 month old like that. They don't get it.

groovygrl

Eh, ok, I still am surprised there are not books with tips about dealing with things like throwing food, tantrums during diaper changes, hitting siblings or others, toy stealing, sleep issues in toddlers, etc besides just redirecting. Maybe it is b/c I have twins but I redirect all the day long & they still just come back & steal toys, hit each other on the head etc. 

macchiatto

I totally get where you're coming from, and I do think a book dealing with toddler-specific issues would be helpful!

Yours are still a little young for this but a friend of mine really recommends a book called "Making the Terrible Twos Terrific." She read it when her son was about 20m old and has found it very helpful. I'm planning to get it out of the library so I can read it, too.