Preschool aged children value their independence and do their best to assert it. It is only natural for a preschooler to exhibit some defiance at some point int heir development. Defiance from a preschooler, however, can come as quite a shock to parents and it is important for parents to handle it immediately to prevent it from becoming an ongoing issue. Here are some tips for parents to deal with a defiant preschooler.
Give your child choices
It is important for parents to recognize that their preschooler is no longer a baby. Parents are often in the habit of just telling their preschooler what to do. This can be very bothersome for a child who wants to assert their independence. Giving your child options can help prevent a lot of issues because the child is able to feel some degree of control over their own choices. Simple decisions, such as whether the child wants corn flakes or Cheerios can help your child to feel more in control.
Discipline immediately
If your child has done something that warrants discipline, it is important to carry out the discipline method as quickly as possible and immediately. Young children are not always great with their long-term memory, so waiting a couple hours, or even half an hour to discipline your child for something is likely to confuse and upset them because they may not remember what they did wrong.
Pay attention to good behavior
Young children can easily feel unappreciated if it seems like you only notice them when they’ve done something wrong. It is important to recognize and acknowledge the good things your child has done as well. If your child put his dirty clothes in the basket where they belong, be sure to thank him for doing such a good job remembering where to put his clothes. This will give your child a confidence boost as well as let him know you’re paying attention to him.
Follow through
If you tell your child he needs to do something, only tell him once. Don’t harp on him for an hour to do it because if he didn’t listen the first time, he likely won’t listen the 47th time either. If your child chooses to ignore you, follow through with disciplining him in whatever form of discipline you practice. If you fail to follow through, your child is likely to get the idea that he doesn’t have to listen to you because he doesn’t think you’ll follow through with your threats of discipline.
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