door, she knocks it down!” says her mom. When she’s
moving, she’s happy. But her constant activity means she
forever needs boo-boos kissed, trips to the park, and
parents who are vigilant about childproofing the house.
One in ten toddlers is a strong-willed, spirited tyke. These “roller-coaster
kids” have high highs and low lows. And when
the sparks of daily stress
mix with the TNT of their explosive personalities
… KABOOM!
Parents usually know if they have a spirited/challenging child,
because they’re the “more” kids:
• more active (they run farther,
jump higher, and spin longer)
• more impatient (they hate sharing and taking turns)
• more impulsive (they’re easily distracted and accident-prone)
• more defiant (they run to the curb, look back at you … then
dash into the street)
• more rigid (they get so upset,
they keep crying even after getting
what they want)
• more intense (they get
very glad,
very sad, and
very mad)
• more sensitive (their feelings are easily hurt)
These superactive kids range from cheery to moody,
stubborn, and
defiant. Fortunately, spirited children usually grow into happy,
enthusiastic kids as long as
they get lots of outside play, consistent but
flexible limits, and a steady supply of patience and love.
Temperament: Easy, Shy, or Spirited
Let’s take your toddler’s temperament “temperature.” Look over these
nine traits and circle the words that best fit your child.
