August 18, 2025
How to address and manage your child's tussles with peers.
It’s common for toddlers, like your 3-year-old, to get into fights with their peers. At this age, children are still learning about boundaries, sharing, and expressing their feelings. They may not yet have the language skills to communicate effectively, leading to frustration and conflicts.
To help your child navigate these interactions, encourage positive play and model appropriate behavior during playtime. Use role-playing scenarios to teach your child how to share, take turns, and express their feelings without resorting to physical altercations.
It might be helpful to communicate with your child’s teachers. They can provide insights into your child’s behavior in school and suggest tailored strategies to help manage conflict. Teachers often have experience with similar situations and may offer guidance that can reinforce what you’re teaching at home.
Teach your child simple phrases to use when they feel upset, such as "I don’t like that" or "Can I have a turn?" Reinforcing these skills can help reduce instances of fights and promote healthier interactions.
Children learn from observing their parents. Showing calmness in conflict situations can teach your toddler how to handle their emotions. Practice calming techniques such as deep breathing or taking a time-out when tensions rise.
Remember, it's a normal part of toddler development for kids to engage in some disputes as they learn to socialize. With your guidance, your child can develop the social skills needed to form friendships and resolve conflicts peacefully.
