My son is 3 and a 1/2. He is almost very good natured but when he is 'done' cooperating with his Dad and me he will just stand in one spot and cry. It doesn't matter where we are, in a grocery store, a parking lot, or at home. If we try to ignore the behavior he starts to scream and then will become disruptive by throwing things on the floor or kicking or hitting things. This will also lead into him sobbing for about 20-30 minutes. There really isn't much we can do to console him. And after that kind of behavior I don't think he deserves to be babied.
It sounds like he just wants a little attention. Give him some feedback by ignoring the bad behavior and then praising him when he chooses to stop. Even taking 10 extra minutes to play hide and seek or do a puzzle seems to really help our littlest one. When she acts up, I just try to wait out the fit. And then ask her to play with me when she gets calm.
Hello~~~First of all go to www.loveandlogic.com My husband and I have 7 children ages 3-15 and love and logic has been one of the best parenting tools we have had. Our local schools are working with the founder of the the program on a 5 yr. contract and the changes in the overall school childrens behavoir is amazing :)
My youngest son went through that. When he started hitting and throwing things, I put him in a gentle body hold. Carefully, restrain him so he can't throw things. It's hard in public, but I used to leave the store, even if I hadn't finished shopping, if either of the kids threw a fit.
Right now, your son knows if he throws a fit, you'll react. The best reaction is to ignore the behavior, completely. My oldest son had fits, too. I would put him in the corner, any corner, even when I was in the store. Don't baby him if he's crying because you won't do what he wants. Be consistant.
You can't let him throw things or hit you or the walls. Show him a better way to let out the frustration he feels. Let him know that it's okay to be angry but he can't be destructive. One more thing. If you tell your son what the plans are for the day, or even from one activity to the next he may cooperate longer. He knows what to expect and will be prepared for it. Don't make the plans a promise, that just hurts them, but for example, you're going into the store, tell him how you expect him to behave. Then, make him follow the rules. Reward good behavior with lots of praise and a hug or two. It may take him a week or so before the good behavior starts. Good luck!!!!
i like the advice of letting him know the plans.. also what helps my 3 year old is letting him help in plans as well..
something small,, like you can take one toy wtih us to the store(example),
when he does start to cry, like he did just the other day while at Kmart because i wouldn't go back to the toy isle so he could see the lightning mcqeen,, i hugged him, talked soothing to him, explaining the reasons why we couldn't go back to the toys or why he wouldn't be getting the toy. and then reminded him of his other 'fabulous' toys at home that are waiting to play with him. it works so far for us. hahaa.
we worry that by addressing him when he is acting like this, he will think that's a way to get our attention,, but in also praising him when he does do good things, he will see attention on both sides.
Good luck,, i hope you find something that works for you :-)
