Why is my Toddler Throwing Toys?

There are many reasons why toddlers throw toys. Three top reasons are seeing others throw things, learning cause and effect, and feeling angry or upset. Children are very observant. When they see throwing in a movie, TV show, by a friend, or family member, they become fascinated with the newly discovered skill.

Most times, there is applause, cheering, and other positive reactions after successful throws. To be a part of the celebrations, toddlers will throw their toys in anticipation of parental excitement.

This could also be used to get someone’s attention simultaneously.

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Learning cause and effect can be a huge milestone for toddlers. As throwing skills are explored, so are the effects and results of the action.

A toy thrown into the water makes a splash, a ball thrown across the backyard will bounce, and a fork thrown off the table will make a clanking noise as it hits the ground.

Each of these actions has fun and different reactions to being thrown.

As mentioned earlier, throwing can be a way to get attention. It is also a way to express feelings. When a child is upset or angry, they may not have the words to use or feel they are being heard.

Emotions can lead to tantrums, including throwing toys, to help show they are not happy.

How Do I Stop My Toddler from Throwing Toys?

Throwing toys is usually only a phase that most toddlers will go through. However, there are ways to help overcome the phase and transition smoothly from throwing habits to taking care of toys.

First, it is essential to avoid removing all toys from your toddler’s possession or telling them they are not allowed to throw toys.

Removing toys will only cause frustration and anger while telling them they are not allowed will make them want to do it more.

It is better to set healthy boundaries that your child can understand and enjoy. Rather than throwing balls inside the house, make a rule that balls are outdoor toys.

Explain how some toys are more fragile than others and could break when thrown.

If a toddler must throw something inside, establish safe areas and safe items, like paper airplanes, beanbags, soft cloth balls, and balloons.

If throwing continues, it is vital to follow through with consequences. Boundaries and rules that clearly describe what will happen if a toy or other item is thrown when not in a good area or while playing are important for understanding, problem-solving, and setting an example.

If toys are being thrown out of anger, introduce healthy ways to get through the feeling. Generally, other physical activities that do not include inappropriate throwing will help calm a child.

Is It Normal for Toddlers to Throw Things?

Throwing things is common among toddlers. It’s part of their developmental process and helps them learn about their environment and how it works.

Toddlers like to practice throwing things to help with hand-eye coordination, among other skills.

It’s crucial to remember that throwing things is a learned behavior. It doesn’t happen overnight.

Toddlers prone to throwing toys may have underlying communication difficulties, are unsure how to get or ask for the attention they seek, and frequently see negative peer behaviors.

Maybe they enjoy the process of throwing and seeing what happens, or perhaps they feel angry or hurt and use throwing as a venting technique.

Why Does My Child Keep Throwing Things on The Floor?

Toddlers are curious creatures. They love learning new things, and they thrive on being challenged. Throwing things is a natural extension of their curiosity.

They want to explore the world around them, and they want to test limits.

That’s why throwing things is so exciting it’s a chance to push boundaries and see what happens.

Children who enjoy throwing things are typically highly energetic and active.

They’re also impulsive. Sometimes, they may have trouble controlling their impulses and tend to act before thinking.

As part of their learning journey, toddlers are used to pushing things further than they should go.

7 Tips to Help your Toddler Stop Throwing Toys

Try giving your child choices. Ask him what he wants to do instead of forcing him to do something. This will help him develop self-control, and it will also help him learn that he has choices.
Praise your child for making good decisions. Let him know that you appreciate him when he chooses wisely. Don’t punish him for choosing poorly.
Teach your child that throwing things is bad. Explain to him that throwing things hurts people and damages property.
Make sure that your home is safe. Remove anything that could hurt someone or damage property.
Watch TV with your child. Play with him during the commercials. This will help him learn patience and self-entertainment.
Help your child to channel his energy in positive ways.
Be patient with your child. Remember that he’s still a toddler. Give him time to learn that throwing things is not okay.