Repeating yourself is exhausting. At two, he can hear you and still struggle to stop what he’s doing and follow your direction. He may resist sometimes, but his silence doesn’t necessarily mean he’s pretending not to hear. Following directions consistently takes practice at this age. [CDC parenting guidance](https://www.cdc.gov/parenting-toddlers/communication/giving-directions.html)

Try this routine:

1. Go to him, get down to his level, and say his name. Get his attention before giving the instruction.
2. Give one short, concrete direction: “Put the truck in the basket.” Tell him what you want him to do; a question like “Can you please tidy everything up?” is less clear.
3. Wait a few seconds so he has time to process the direction and start.
4. If he needs help, follow through calmly. Show him what to do or help him get started: “The truck goes in the basket. Let’s do it together.” Calling across the room again can become another repetition.
5. When he does it, be specific: “You put the truck away when I asked. Thank you!”

Keep directions clear and appropriate for his age. A neutral voice and specific praise can also make cooperation easier. [CDC tips for giving directions](https://www.cdc.gov/parenting-toddlers/directions/good-directions.html)

Before a transition, try giving a little warning and a limited choice: “After this book, it’s time for shoes. Red shoes or blue shoes?” Offer choices you can accept. If you need to leave, be clear that leaving is happening.

Expect to give some calm help as he learns; he won’t always follow through the first time. You can work toward fewer repetitions while acknowledging his feelings and keeping the boundary: “You want to keep playing. It’s time to leave, and I’ll help you.”