Toddlers throwing things is considered normal if this behavior does not become a pattern. Learning to throw is a developmental milestone that requires developed motor skills and good hand–eye coordination. However, if you notice that your child throws things to gain attention, consider discussing it with a professional to detect any underlying issues. It is important to understand the reason behind a toddler’s behaviors, such as throwing things, to help them rectify them and inculcate better behaviors. Read this post to understand what makes toddlers throw things and how you can help them manage this behavior.
Why Do Toddlers Throw Things?
The simple act of throwing things could have several underlying reasons. A toddler may throw things for the following reasons (1) (2). According to Maria Pistorio, LPC, NCC, a therapist specializing in EMDR, CBT therapy, and parent-child interaction therapy, “Toddlers often throw things instead of playing gently for many reasons. Sometimes, emotional dysregulation, which is in short supply for toddlers, leads to a tantrum. Other times, they throw things to learn what happens when they do it, both with the object and the relationship dynamics with the caregiver.” “Children crave attention, and it doesn’t matter if it is good or bad attention; they want it all. As a result, their behavior can be shaped with positive parental attention on positive opposite behaviors, such as praising the child for playing gently or keeping the toys on the table,” Pistorio adds.
Problems That Might Arise Due To Throwing Things
If throwing becomes an ingrained habit, it may become a behavioral attribute. A toddler who becomes habituated to throwing things may develop the following undesired traits.
How To Stop Your Toddler From Throwing Things?
Parents must take necessary actions to prevent habits, such as throwing things, from becoming the child’s character trait. You may consider trying the following interventions. Patience, empathy, and consistency are what you need to break or make a habit in children. Make sure you reinforce appropriate behavior through the regular practice of the above-mentioned interventions.
When to see a doctor?
You may consult a doctor about your toddler’s behavior if the toddler (6):
Throws objects without any discernible triggers or reasons. Always ignores “No” or other instructions while throwing objects. Prefers throwing objects even in situations where they can communicate with you easily. Shows intense anger or frustration each time they throw things. Mostly throws objects directed towards someone, such as a parent or a sibling. Does not respond to your consistent efforts of correcting the habit.
Consult the pediatrician for such behavioral patterns. In some cases, these might be signs of autism, although you should not make any conclusions (7). Your toddler will undergo several tests to conclude the presence of autism, but only if the healthcare provider suspects it.
