Dads

That boundary thing is gonna happen again and again, at least it has with my daughter. Can be very rough. Seems to come in batches as well, so yeah.... I can only advise you to try and figure out the best ways to keep cool when it happens. Always keep in mind that it's natural to try and push boundaries, and try not to punish it while still staying firm.

Things will get easier, and it might help to write down mini diaries that you can later look back on to put things in perspective. Because it sure won't always feel like it did.

I've been (more or less successfully) trying to keep a log of happenings every few hours on the phone. Important: try to record small achievements. Focus on the positives. it helps me put things in perspective a) close to when it happens and b) whenever I read back on it. Also reminds me that despite everything, I still manage to keep bread on the table and raise a great kid.

Example entries:

1. Tantrum happened, reason: X, calmed down quickly and stayed firm. Remembered to praise for calming down well.
2. Took out trash
3. Successful client call
4. Cleaned kitchen