[ATwinkleofHope]

My little precious Brianne has decided that she just loves the fact that she can run, run, run. She runs from me when it is time to eat, change her diaper, and time to go somewhere. I don't know if this is a developmental thing or just that it is something she has decided to do. She thinks its a game cause she laughs and has a good ole time with herself while she is running away. I don't think I play along cause if she doesn't come for dinner then I just put the bib on the table and sit down. She, of course, eventually comes. When it is time to change her diaper I will just sit on the floor and wait til she comes by and then grab her. However, the hardest time is when it is time to go somewhere. She does it when we go to daycare, when I pick her up from daycare, or just if it is to go shopping or something. (She also runs from her daycare provider.) I usually don't have time to wait for her to come. I will start to get ready myself by putting on my jacket and say, "Mommy is going bye bye, do you want to go?" Sometimes she will just say "Bye." Like she doesn't have a care in the world. She is 20 months old tomorrow (Jan. 2nd). Does anyone know how to stop this. It is driving me CRAZY.

Thanks in advance,
-Jo

[gabsdot]

Welcome to my life. My 2 year old is exactly like this. Sorry but I don't have any suggestions.

[lovestruck]

Well I've made it through two boys who did the same thing and this too shall end. I think you are doing the right thing by not making a game of it. Whenever you pick her up, tell her that when mommie tells her to come here (or whatever it is you say) then shes needs to come to mommie. Something just short and simple to let her know what you expect. Then when she does it give lots of reinforcement that she did what you asked. She probably likes the game of it all so find time just to play that you chase her around and get her, but be sure it's play time. Don't use any of the same sayings you say when you are trying to get her to come to you. Truthfully, I don't remember if these things actually made a difference with my boys, but it's what I did anyway. Like I said, this is a phase and it will pass! Good luck!

[Mykidsmom]

Hi,

I believe time is the only true solution. I agree let her know she is not doing the right thing and positive reinforcement when she does the right thing. My oldest took off running in a large discount store, people would just watch him run.
We were at the doorway starting to go out and he takes off heading far the farthest corner in the back of the store. I can laugh about it now but I was a basket case at the time. After that my biggest concern was if he got loose in a parking lot. Now, he is the one that when we get out of the car, he immediately reaches for a hand to hold when we walk.

[votemom]

it's a tough age. they understand, yet they don't.

i recommend making diaper changing time or dressing time or whatever very FUN and joyful and snuggly when she obeys you.

if she runs, go pick her up, be very business-like, get the job done, and don't give a lot of positive vibes if you know what i mean.

she's smart - she'll quickly learn that you can be fun and playful when she cooperates.

good luck. it will get easier. just remember to let her know that YOU, not she, are in charge.

[marjo]

Maddie loves to be chased around her bedroom when it is diaper changing time and she laughs and laughs. It is cute but wears thin when I am in a hurry.

[GCS]

I've got a runner too. Only in the house, she wouldn't run away where she didnt feel secure. Yet. Let me know if you find something that works!

Christina