Your toddler can be very demanding and everyday life with a toddler can be draining, challenging and exhausting. Try these 10 stay-happy strategies...

Stay Relaxed
Life with your toddler can seem pretty difficult at times, but you know that it will get better eventually. Tell yourself that today will soon be over and that tomorrow will be a different story.

Did You Know?

A 3 year old judges the seriousness of behaviour in terms of consequences, not intention. He thinks it's worse to spill a lot of paint accidentally than to spill a little deliberately.

Use Positive Language
Everyday, tell your child what you like about her - perhaps tell her she has a lovely singing voice or that she's fun to be with (even when she's not!). Upbeat comments like these keep your relationship happy.

Have Confidence in Yourself
Remind yourself that when you both lock horns, it's nobody's fault. You need to reassure yourself that this awkward behaviour is natural, and isn't a sign that you're doing something wrong.

Take a Break
You'd be amazed at how refreshed you feel after a short break from your demanding toddler. Sometimes, all it takes is for her to spend half an hour with one of your friends to allow you to recharge your batteries.

Enjoy Her Company
It's easy to focus on the negatives, and to forget the good times you have with your child. So when things do go well, relax and enjoy her company. Laugh when she laughs - this brings you closer together.

Vary Your Toddler's Routine
You're as likely to become bored with her daily routine as she is; and that's when arguments start. So change her plan of activities now and then and do something you both enjoy, such as going swimming.

Don't Expect Too Much
If your child is only two years old, then you must expect her to to behave like a two year old. You will feel a lot less disappointed in her behaviour and more loving towards her if you have realistic expectations of her behaviour.

Give Her Lots of Cuddles
There's nothing like a cuddle to let your child know you love her - and you know she feels the same when she hugs you. Make this sort of loving physical contact a regular feature of your relationship.

Talk Over Your Worries
A good chinwag with your partner or best friend is a great tonic when you're feeling fed up about the latest antics of your toddler. You'll feel a lot more positive after a long chat with a sympathetic listener.

Give Yourself a Pat on the Back
You're doing a great job with your toddler but no one's going to give you a medal for your good work, so award one yourself. You deserve it as your toddler will think you are the best mum in the world.