Too Much Tickling?

Many toddlers love to be tickled, and beg for more, but it can turn into too much of a good thing. The pleasure can suddenly turn into pain before your little giggler has a chance to let you know she's had enough. "Take a gentle approach, and let your child be in control," says Lawrence Cohen, Ph.D., author of Playful Parenting. Or try one of these variations on tickling:


• Wiggle your fingers just above her. The mere suggestion of a tickle can inspire giggles.

• Walk your fingers up her body, from her toes to her nose. The pace and predictability will keep her smiling.

• Go for her socks. A good game: Each of you tries to take off the other's socks while keeping on your own. (Physical fun like this keeps your child in charge.)