Why Toddlers Say No | Autonomy, Choices & Power Struggles
Why 'no' is your toddler's favourite word, what it means developmentally, and how to reduce power struggles with limited choices and connection.
Somewhere around 18 months, most toddlers discover a magical, powerful word: 'no'. Suddenly they're saying it to shoes, breakfast, the bath — even things they clearly want. It can feel like a personal fight, but it isn't. 'No' is a developmental milestone, and understanding what's behind it changes everything.