My lovely 4 year old is proving quite a challenge this summer holiday. We're taking her on loads of outings and providing art and craft activities as well as challenging activities.Yet we're having a higher than average number of incidents of cheeky behaviour. We've had a fair few tantrums, shouty 'NOOO's' and general rudeness.
Like many parents we spend endless hours discussing theories to explain behaviour. Our current hypothesis is that she is missing the structure and activities provided by her pre-school. She gets up fairly early - usually between 6 and 7 am - and for the first few hours of the day we tend to be getting on with tasks for our business as well as doing housework. By the time we make it out for an activity it is usually around 10 or 11am so maybe she feels neglected during those first few hours.
We have been reasonably strict with giving her time-outs, warning chances and taking toys away. Usually this has worked and we've all been able to get on with our day. We are trying to ensure she gets focused attention such as conversations and story time. But, we also have to ask her to wait whilst her brothers get some attention. She has been getting plenty of exciting treats as we buy school shoes, clothes and accessories. Maybe we need to keep working on how to show gratitude.
Luckily we've also had plenty of nice behaviour and happy times these holidays. Two weeks left...
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