i don't think there is a way around the headache. disciplining and training children is a hard job. im sure some posting here can recommend some useful info and successful disciplining techniques. once you establish yourself as an authority figure and he learns to be obedient, you'll see him as the typical toddler having gone through the "terrible 2's" like the rest
All of that is pretty common with a 2 year old (especially boys). Put important things you don't want him into up (like in the top shelf of a closet, attic, a closed off bedroom, etc.), handle locks on kitchen (they sell at hardware store, target, etc.---- they make ones that are like hooks you can just hook onto pulls or more elaborate ones that require a screwdriver) cabinets/ bathroom cabinets, etc. Child proof even if he isn't there all that often---- it will save your sanity. I also have areas my kids are allowed to get into (say one kitchen cabinet low to the ground that has pots, pans and lids in it---- lots of banging but can't hurt anything) and then have certain things called "pretties" which are in one room that they can't touch. If they do, I say "no, can't touch my pretties ---- lets go get your toys. . .) and redirect them. It has always worked pretty well. You could have a room off limits that you try to keep him out of (gates help) but you have to have an alternative place for him to go. Redirection of an activity you don't like to one that is acceptable is key. If you say no to much---- it becomes meaninless. Wondering off, he's just going to require more supervision than you're used to. It won't last forever. I promise. As far as disrespecting, at 2 they are testing boundaries. I'd get down on my hands and knees if he sticks his tongue out at you, look him in the eye and say "no sticking out your tongue. that is not nice." Clear, concise rules. Then start a timeout ----- warning first, then follow through with time out. two minutes is appropriate for a 2 year old. Good luck. It's hard caring for an active 2 year old even when you deal with it day in day out---- let alone when it is only once in a while!
Its very usual for any 2 1/2 year old child to do all things you have mentioned and then some. How about doing activities that are more physical? As far as sticking things in mouth and ears, try getting Mr. potatohead. Empty cereal boxes or any empty boxes, let him make holes in them with non sharp objects.. Anything that is hands on fun. He sounds like a child that is very curious right now. even outside you can hide stuff in the dirt and let him dig. Ofcourse all activities under supervision.. Marching with pots to bang.. any activity that he can discover something. Think of it as you have an explorer on your hands. Dont give him a chance to say no. You set up the activity before he even knows its going to happen and you start it call him over to join in. When he sees you enjoying it, he will also.. The internet has many ideas for you. Tiring but well worth it.. have fun with your explorer, hes only trying to discover whats whens and whys. Good Day
How do I take care of this without to much of a headache on my part. -- your words
Sounds just like my inquisitive and very busy two-year old grandson. How do I take care of this? Whenever I babysit the younger grandchildren any more, I enlist the help of their grandfather. Four eyes and four hands and four feet work much better than two. Hope this helps ....