The terrible two's don't necessarily begin the day your toddler turns two. They may actually begin sooner.  This is a time that you can expect to hear "no" often, and experience temper tantrums.

Age two is a time when your child has not developed his vocabulary very far and will have trouble expressing him.  The two year old will be defiant and rebellious until you master your parenting skills.  

This is a time for you to set limits and offer choices to avoid unnecessary confrontations.  Plan ahead and suggest choices between this or that fruit.  Suggest a choice of this outfit or that.  Do you want to go with me or play with your friend?  

Set limits and don't be surprised if your toddler tests you.  If you say bedtime is in ten minutes, stick to your guns.  If you say you must pick up your toys before snack time, don't back down.

A routine for meals, snacks, naps, baths and playtime is important training for your child's future habits.  It signals that you are in control and it will create security for your child.  

A bedtime schedule is one of the most important routines you can set.  This signals to the child that the day is over and sleep is expected.  This is not the time to engage in a playful tussle.  Prepare with a quiet winding down activity.  Reading a bedtime story just before saying good night prepares your child for sleep.  Putting them down at a regular time sets their biological time clock too.  It also gives you some personal time.

When you child becomes out of control, disengage.  You can start by declaring time out and sending them to a designated location.  After that ignore their behavior even if they are combative.  Go on about your activities even to the point of leaving the room.  Their only way of accomplishing what they want is if they have your attention.