Why I Actually Love the Toddler Stage (Yes, Even the “Terrible Twos”)

I feel like I’m supposed to say I’m “surviving” this stage.

The toddler years have such a stigma attached to them. They’re often labelled the “Terrible Twos” — a time of tantrums, dropped naps, big emotions, and very strong opinions.

And yes, we’ve had full-on emotional breakdowns over things like me peeling a banana “the wrong way.” I didn’t even know there was a wrong way.

We’ve also had snapped chocolate Mikados, and she screams “PUT BACK!” as if I can just magically glue it together.

But I can’t speak for everyone — every child is different. Ours might just enjoy screaming at times. Who knows?

What I can say is this:

I absolutely LOVE this stage.

There’s something so special about hearing those first real “I love yous.” Not the copied ones, but the ones where you can see it in their eyes. They finally understand what it means. They know the feeling and choose to say it. That moment? Honestly, nothing else compares.

And the conversations? Pure entertainment.

The random questions. The completely serious debates about why she should go to the toilet instead of peeing on the floor, and why mummy can’t stay home and play all day too. The way she shouts “MONCH!” like I’m running a cafe.

Watching her personality unfold in real time is one of the best parts. She’s not just my baby anymore — she’s this tiny human with humour, preferences and the biggest heart.

Yes, there are tantrums. Mannnyyyyy of them!

But there’s also belly laughter that comes out of nowhere, spontaneous running hugs that knock you over. and proud claps when she manages her own fork — or celebrates a successful poo on the toilet (don’t worry, she doesn’t use a fork on the toilet… moving on). And the way she says my name, like I’m genuinely the most important person in her world. It’s a feeling like no other, knowing someone really needs and relies on you.

It’s Magic… but let’s be honest, other days can be more ‘Crucio’… and occasionally, full-on ‘Avada Kedavra.

The dropped naps mean longer days and less cleaning — but also longer chats and playtime. Big feelings mean dramatic tears — but also bigger cuddles after. Independence means it takes 15 minutes to put shoes on — but the pride on her face when she does it herself is worth every second.

So are the “Terrible Twos” really that terrible?

Maybe sometimes. There are moments when emotions are huge, the snacks are wrong, the naps are non-existent, and you wonder how someone so small can have such a strong voice.

But there’s also so much joy packed into this toddler stage.

It’s the mispronounced words that won’t last forever (gluffalo for me). It’s the fiercely independent “No! My do it!” It’s the dramatic storytelling about nursery that you nod along to even though you can barely understand what’s happening. It’s the way they look at you like you are their entire world.

One day, the tantrums will fade. The “MONCH!” demands will turn into proper menu requests. The running hugs might become slightly more “cool.”

And I know I’ll miss this noise.

So no — I’m not just surviving the toddler years.

I’m actually loving them.

If you’re in the toddler stage right now, what’s your favourite thing about it? The conversations? The cuddles? The chaos?

I’d love to hear what makes this time special in your house.