Toddler not listening

Ahhh we have reached terrible twos. I suggest getting one of those backpacks with the leashes or the ones where you strap it to each of your wrist so they’ll be connected. Also explain to him why those actions are dangerous and what could happen to him.

I would take him to a park or a safe space and practice what happens when he doesn't listen. Mine is 22 months old and I took him to an open field and when he doesn't listen I catch up with him (no where for him to go really) pick him up calmly but swiftly and put him in the pram. I say we don't run, we listen and strap him in. He will cry and get upset and I let him. I walk for him pushing him and when calm I say : do you want to try again and I let him out. If same thing then straight back in.

It's hard work and repetitive but now when I call he just stops and looks back at me and he knows if I have his hand not to run off unless I say it's ok.

Each child is different so some learn earlier etc. but try leashes etc and you can do the same thing on one. If he runs and pulls it pick him up wait and try again. It's really trial and error until it clicks for them,

We're half way through the 2s with my little girl. I've noticed recently I'm feeling low and I suspect her not listening could be related. I personally would get some reins or those walking handcuff things especially if he's not a fan of the buggy. I don't have much advice with regards to actually listening as I'm out of ideas though my little girl is pretty good with stop which can help in some situations. We do also explain why we have to do certain things like hold hands when walking through the car park and not walking at the edge of the path (the side closest to the road)

We got a safety harness and for some odd reason that changed the way our toddler used to take off on me. Now he holds my hand the entire time and I never had to use the harness as he never takes off now

We used to live on a highway. I would ask if he wanted to walk holding my hand or I'd carry him. He always chose walking at that age. The second he tried to let go of my hand, I'd pick him up. Because he was so young and their brain is still developing, I would give him a few chances to remember how to behave appropriately for where we were. (Ie no running in a parking lot, make sure other kids know and are ok with you playing dinosaurs, hold onto the cart while in the grocery store, etc). I believe at 2 he had 5 or 6 chances, now that he's 4 he only gets 3 before we leave (or put in the cart at the grocery store).