Expert says these 5 toddler behaviours may feel frustrating to parents, but they are completely normal

Parenting toddlers is no easy task! From saying no to everything to getting overwhelmed over little things, many toddler behaviors leave parents in a constant dilemma. Many parents are left with the question: “Why is my child behaving this way?” But how do experts see such actions?
To answer this question, Dr. Tanya Altmann, a longevity pediatrician, took to social media to clear the doubts many parents face. Several of these actions are not signs of bad behaviour, they are simply a part of normal childhood development. She explained why it is important for parents to understand the psychology behind such actions. Here are 5 things toddlers do that feel frustrating but are completely normal:

A toddler constantly saying no to everything can test a parent’s patience. However, according to Dr. Tanya, it’s actually a sign of development. “This is your toddler learning independence and control,” she adds.
At this age, children are discovering that they have their own choices and opinions. Saying “no” becomes a way for them to express control over their environment and understand their own abilities.

Mealtime can become stressful when toddlers start throwing food. While this creates a mess and frustration, this behavior is a part of how young children explore their world. The pediatrician shares, “I know it's so frustrating and messy, but this is part curiosity, part cause and effect learning, and sometimes it's just a sign they're done eating and you need to move on.”

A tiny change may seem normal to adults, but for children these moments can feel overwhelming. “Their brain isn't fully developed yet, especially the part that regulates emotions. So yes, the blue cup really does matter,” the pediatrician explains.
Toddlers are still learning how to handle strong feelings. Their emotional regulation skills are still developing, which means even small disappointments can lead to big reactions.

“Wanting the same book, the same song, the same bedtime routine, the same kisses over and over and over again. Repetition is comforting and helps them learn and feel secure,” explains pediatrician Dr. Tanya.

Familiar routines give children a sense of safety and help them understand the world around them.

“Toddlers are naturally egocentric,” says the doctor. While parents often worry when their toddler refuses to share toys, expecting a very young child to easily share may not match their stage of development. “True sharing skills don't really develop until closer to age three or four,” adds Dr. Tanya.
The pediatrician’s message for parents is simple: “If your toddler is doing any or all of these, take a deep breath. This is normal development.” So, Instead of seeing these behaviours only as difficult moments, parents can view them as signs that their child is learning, growing, and building important life skills.