10 Things ALL New Parents Need to Know About Toddlers

10 things all new parents need to know about toddlers – [Last Updated – May 2024]

Becoming a mother has got to be the most rewarding experiences I have every gone through. For me it has been a huge blessing and I love being a mum.

But, there are some things I wish I knew about the toddler stage before I became a parent. Not that it would have changed my decision, I just would have been prepared for the madness that ensues!

So, here are 10 things I’ve learned about toddlers since becoming a mother. The little things to look forward to that make parenting one hell of a ride.

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10 Things ALL New Parents Need to Know About Toddlers

1: Everything means yes.

Somehow the word no just doesn’t exist for a period of time. Or at least, it feels like that!

No means yes, maybe means yes, we will see means yes and don’t even dare means yes, go ahead!

I swear that sometimes I would be better off talking to a brick wall because my little one just likes to see how far he can push my patience.

2: Everything is mummy’s fault.

The sky’s blue? My fault.

It’s raining? My fault.

Dad’s still at work? Yep, MY FAULT!

It comes to a point where you just begin to accept it and switch off. No matter how many times I talked to little bear about his feelings and explaining situations, I was still always wrong.

So glad that stage is over with haha.

3: Bed time actually means it’s time to get hyper.

This one, this one right here is the bane of my life at the moment.

The mere mention of bedtime seems to awaken this tiny little monster who’s quicker than ever and has a scream that probably only dogs can here.

He jumps about on the bed, cries when I tell him no and asks “why” constantly!

BECAUSE MUM SAID SO, THAT’S WHY!

The constant need to be awake can be draining, but persevering with a routine makes a huge difference, even if they do get hyper right before sleep.

4: Peppa pig is their God.

I’m not sure how or when it happened but all of a sudden Little bear started asking about Peppa pig and if he could watch it.

I was slightly taken a back since we have never mentioned it to him nor has he watched it at a family members house. So, him asking for it out the blue was strange.

Then I discovered that Peppa pig is actually the toddler God and that all of them must watch.

Seriously, everyone I talk to tells me about the Peppa pig stage. I thought we bypassed it but apparently not.

Peppa pig is on from first thing in the morning until bedtime.

I know the show word for word. It’s mind numbing.

Edit to add: Please, if you can, DON’T let them start watching it, there are so many more BETTER shows for them to watch like Bluey.

5: Vegetables are poison.

Yes, I’m secretly trying to poison my child by giving him vegetables – *eye roll*.

I’m not sure when it happened but all of a sudden, he hated vegetables. He wouldn’t eat them anymore and throws a fit any time they are on his plate.

I’m not trying to kill you child; I’m trying to nourish you!!

6: Forget peaceful shopping trips.

Little bear hates the shops. He hates his pram and he hates being told no.

So, going shopping is a recipe for disaster because he just wants to pull everything off shelves and run wild.

I’m pretty sure I’m going to have a break down one of these days. But, I must mention that he does listen when we go out and doesn’t have a tantrum.

He’s just always wanting to be on the go and discover the world.

7: Dinner time means an array of food will be cooked.

I was always told to eat what was on the plate, that what I got given was it and it worked.

I ate all of my dinner and that was that, even if I did moan.

But Little bear?

Well, he’s stubborn as hell and can go to bed on an empty stomach in a protest against his dinner if it’s not what he wants.

He’s fussy and in an attempt to make sure he eats some sort of food and doesn’t starve I make about 3/4 different meals for him a night because he just can’t make up his mind.

Yes, I’m making a rod for my own back and no I don’t care. My child’s eating at least and that’s all that matters to me right now.

Just be prepared to work hard when/if your toddler decides there’s no food other than cookies that they like haha.

8: Cookies are my #1 weapon when it comes to the bribing war.

Speaking of cookies, they are my ultimate bribe when it comes to my son.

After arguing with my mini me for an hour or so I finally give in and say he can have a cookie if he goes for his bath.

Naughty mummy I know, but it works and it’s the only thing that can get my boy to do anything. I can’t wait till that’s no longer the case!

9: Bath time means flooding the house.

Yes, my son had flooded the bathroom on more than one occasion at bath time.

He’s a master at splashing and emptying the bath without pulling the plug. He’s a bit of a magician that way.

But, I know I’m not alone in this because a few friends have all gone through this stage. Although bath time is super fun and enjoyable, it can get hella messy.

Keep plenty of towels at hand.

10: Your child/ren will be your greatest loves.

Even though my little guy is a terror and pushes me to my limits daily, he means more to me than anything in this world.

He is very polite, using his pleases and thank yous, plus he’s always so thoughtful.

I love my boy fiercely and wouldn’t trade him for the world.

He’s such a treasure and I’m one proud mama bear.

Daily I am reminded that it’s all worth it when he gives me my cuddle and kiss when I wake up. Those moments of madness melt away and suddenly you’re reminded how amazing parenthood is.

So, that’s what I have learned about my toddler.

I’m still always learning, and I can imagine that it won’t stop anytime soon, but I’m ok with that. I love my little bear to pieces and this experience is one in a million.

Do you have anything you would add to this list? Let me know in the comments!

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