Does this sound familiar to anyone?

Houseofmen

Wed, Aug 11 2010, 9:37 pm

We love our 3 year old to pieces. However, he can be quite a challenge.

1) He expresses himself through screaming when frustrated ( doesn't happen all the time but happens enough), and only sees the situation his way. Looking him in his eyes and focusing and telling him hell get what he needs when he stops screaming generally works.

2) When entering an unfamiliar situation, he will look for trouble.
This could be: 1) Staying by Grandmas house for the weekend
2) Waking up and seeing Daddy home- usually Daddy goes to work by the time he gets up

He will grab, pinch, hit or bite those around him ( like in the playgroud), or he will throw a toy on the floor.

Hes not mean spirited, I think he thinks its funny. Sometimes hes ok, so it doesnt happen ALL the time..

We usually respond with a sharp "no" and take away a privelege. However, is there anything else that would work long term? He's getting all the therapies and is in a special 3-5 playgroup ( Strivright). How can the therapists/teachers work with me, and what is the most effective strategy?

mindyme

Wed, Aug 11 2010, 9:41 pm

What is he in therapy for? Is it related to these behaviors? And what do your therapists/teachers say? They are really the best to advise you, since they are experts, and know your son well.
These are certainly within the range of "normal", for a 3yr old, but only occasionally, in my experience, not very often. But if he is getting help, that is fantastic!!! So many parents leave things, and then they get worse...

flowerpower

Wed, Aug 11 2010, 9:44 pm

Being strong and consistant is the key. Use a lot of positive reinforcement and routine and structure would help too. Let him know the schedule of the day in advance.

Houseofmen

Wed, Aug 11 2010, 11:30 pm

flowerpower wrote:

Being strong and consistant is the key. Use a lot of positive reinforcement and routine and structure would help too. Let him know the schedule of the day in advance.

Ill try letting him the know the days schedule in advance...

thanks!

me4

Wed, Aug 11 2010, 11:52 pm

role play the unfamiliar situations (give positive examples of how you want him to act when and where in a positive tone) and give enough warning in advance.
ask the teacher for advice and what she sees works.