Every parent has faced the challenge of asking their toddler to do something—only to be ignored, met with defiance, or faced with a full-blown meltdown. Toddlers are naturally curious, independent, and strong-willed, making it difficult for them to stop what they’re doing and follow directions right away. The good news is that with the right approach, you can encourage your child to listen while strengthening your bond as a parent. Understanding Why Toddlers Struggle with Listening Before jumping to conclusions