Toddlers start off as a blank slate and it can be a challenge to teach them self control and how to deal handle certain situations. We think these books do a great job at addressing common toddler self control issues such as: potty training toddlers, teaching toddlers not to bite, and teaching toddlers not to hit. Combined with a fulsome teaching approach – we believe these books can help teach your toddler not to hit, how to use the bathroom, and that teeth are not for biting!
A fulsome approach – why books are important for teaching self control:
For all of these toddler self control issues – we firmly believe that a holistic approach is key. If just one tactic is used – it is easier for the toddler to ignore the issue or to get upset.
In addition to these books – we recommend having individual conversations reinforcing the good behavior from various authority figures (parents, grandparents, older siblings). If the messaging just comes one figure – it can be difficult to break through. We also recommend positive reinforcement when the correct behavior is exhibited. Lastly – we recommend repetition – some of these behaviors take time to develop – so having conversations a few times a week and putting these books into your common reading rotation can be a key to success.
My Body
This book is a great early book for toddlers in that using pictures it walks toddlers through their different senses and explains what those senses do. Its a great introduction to self awareness.
My Body! What I say Goes!
This is a great book to teach your child about boundaries and communicating with their parents. It is not a board book and is not the most accessible book (its over 35 pages long), but it conveys very important messaging to children.
Potty
This board book, by Leslie Patricelli, is a great introduction to the potty and to potty training for toddlers. Potty training is not easy and will require significant explanation and repetition and this is a great way to dive right in!
Teeth are Not for Biting
If you are ever handed a note from day care about your child biting – this book is for you! From the Best Behavior series, this is a great board book to read with your toddler to explain what teeth should be used for, why your little ones teeth might be sore, and emphasizes that teeth are not for biting. Great for reinforcement.
Potty Time!
We think the best way to encourage self control and good behavior is reinforcement from a variety of sources – as such – here is our second Potty training book. This board book, part of the My Little Sound series, has three sounds and walks through the potty process. The sounds have a battery pack, but we have not had to swap out after a few years of ownership.
Hands are Not for Hitting
Should your toddler make it through without biting – you may have to teach them not to hit. From the same Best Behavior series, this board book walks through good uses for ones hands and bad uses.
P is for Potty
Our favorite book on the list – P is for Potty is an excellent potty training tool. Your child will be engaged by the multiple different flaps that can be pulled open on every page and can follow along as Elmo learns about potty training from his friend Albie.
We hope you enjoy some of these books! Check out some of our other book content:
