Because children learn differently at different ages, discipline and teaching techniques should take into account the child's developmental level and ability to learn. During the toddler years, the best techniques for teaching children how you want them to behave and avoiding frustration are repetition, distraction, and supervision. Repetition is important because children between the ages of one and three need a lot of practice to learn new concepts. The concepts involved in following directions, taking turns, and delaying gratification are new and challenging for toddlers and are learned only through constant practice.
Distraction is especially important for helping toddlers avoid trouble.
Once you've told your toddler not to climb on the coffee table, it may sink in better if you leave the living room and find something else to do. If you stay, you'll have to keep stopping him, and sooner or later someone is going to get frustrated. The important thing is that your child learns that no means no, not that the two of you get into a battle of wills. Your child will eventually learn that climbing is not allowed, but he can find other fun things to do. You want him to learn how to find alternatives to behaviors you don't allow.