How do I discipline my 17 month old?

Question

I have a little girl, about 17 months old. She has quite a temper already and has begun to be a little naughty. Lately she has been hitting a lot and pulling hair. And when she is really frusterated she pinches and bites others and herself. I am not really sure what to do to discipline her. We have tried saying no sternly, time outs (which she thinks are fun usually) and saying sorry and giving a kiss. I am not sure if I am doing these things wrong or just doing the wrong thing period. Does anybody have any advice? Most people just say its a stage, but I am embarrased when she acts like this to other kids and in public. Please help!

Answer 1

well there are a couple of things, i know this will be torn between readers but you can say if she bites someone, bite her back. pulling hair pull hers back. maybe she doesnt realize that it hurts. when she is in time out have her stand in the corner with hands behind her back. it should not be fun. children that age are so hard, they are so young but they are smart too. finding what works sure takes time. good luck  

Answer 2

timeouts dont really work till the baby is about 2 and actually understands...what i use to do is pop my niece on her hand and tell no sternly and say something like not nice and that worked for us....

Answer 3

When she starts to hit, immediately stop what is going on, take her hand firmly in yours, and loudly say "NO! DON'T HIT" or pull hair or whatever she is doing that you want to stop.  If she does it again, you address it again.  The worst thing you can do is yell across the room and not do anything.  Consistiency is the key here.  You say you are saying it sternly, but my kids knew when mommy used her LOUD voice, they'd better quit whatever they are doing.  Maybe for time out, if you face a chair in a quiet room toward the wall, and have her sit there for a minute or so (depending on her age), it won't be so fun.  Whatever you do, don't laugh, even if it's funny!  Good luck!