Know that babies can’t be naughty

Many things that mokopuna do can make us frustrated or stressed but we need to remember it is part of their normal development. They can be messy, dirty their pants, throw up, cry or stay awake when adults want to be asleep.

Sometimes they do these things all at once - but they don't do it on purpose or because they are trying to upset someone.

It is helpful to know the stages babies and young children go through, so we all understand what is going on. Then we can cope with our responses and feelings, or support other people with theirs.

An extract from Aroha in Action: A Resource for Whānau - developed by Amokura in collaboration with SKIP and the Campaign for Action on Family Violence.