The "Terrible Twos" is't just a catchy phrase...there's something to it. This age has certain aspects that are unique. At two years old, children understand most of what we are saying, but can't fully speak themselves. This creates understandable frustration.
Their natural instinct to explore their environment is peaking, yet they almost completely lack the capacity for self-control or understand "cause and effect"....and now they can walk too, and can quickly get into places they weren't able to before. These factors combine to make for a most challenging time for parents.
So how do I manage the "Terrible Twos?"
Satisfy their needs for play and exploration with constructive outlets. Provide them with sand and water playstations, a color wall, and cooking and tool playsets, (See Catalog)
Use your words! Teach them how to say, "I'm mad!" or, "I want the toy."
Offer the right way instead of just denying the wrong way. For example; say, "Walk around the puddle." instead of, "Don't get your feet wet."
The "Time Out." Rewarding positive behavior is optimal, but sometimes the "Time Out" is effective and beneficial. (See: "Time-Out")
Naptime - Make sure they are well rested. Kids get mighty cranky just from being tired! (See: Sleep Schedules)
Make sure your house is fully "baby-proofed." (See how to here!)
Summary
Even with evenly tempered children, it's typical to experience tantrums, screaming, throwing things, and running away from you. Other behaviors can include damaging property, both on purpose and by accident, and saying "no!" to just about everything they hear. (See: "NO!")
Control your own reactions, because you will definitely have them. Remember that nothing they do is their fault, it's just how they come! That doesn't mean that they get a free pass to do whatever they want, but it helps to know this when forming an appropriate response.
Teach them how to communicate their thoughts, and teach them basic cause and effect. Even though children at this stage are too young to effectively control themselves, plant the seeds early on, so that they may begin to grow.