Not so terrible, after all – 2-year-olds just want to be independent

Caring for a toddler can be challenging and requires patience. Understanding the psychology behind a toddler’s actions can help weather some of the rockier days.

By: Lindsay Barnhart, University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: July 21, 2026

Words: 1,025

Last Updated: 4 weeks, 2 days ago

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By Lindsay Barnhart, University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic

A 2-year-old is lying on the floor yelling, with their socks pulled off after spending 15 minutes trying to get them on in the first place.

A caregiver might take a deep breath and think, “Here we go again – another ‘terrible two’ tantrum.”

What is really going on?

Toddlers are developing autonomy and a growing sense of self. They are becoming aware that they are …

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