How can I get my 4yo to behave better?

Lisa - posted on 05/19/2012 ( 3 moms have responded )

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My son is 4, will be 5 in November and is acting out horribly! He is the oldest and has an almost 2yo sister. He has always been a strong willed boy who asks questions constantly and always wants to do what the big kids are doing. He has now hit a stage where he cries anytime he is told no, or to pick up toys or go to sleep. I have tried time outs, swats on his bottom, and taking away a favorite toy or bear. There are times when he is back to my super helpful well behaved imaginative son and then all of a sudden he is crying and screaming at the top of his lungs because he didn't get his way. Not sure what to do at this point I'm trying to stay on top of him and I know he is tired with finishing up school and adding in soccer and tee ball but I want him to behave even if he's tired! Any ideas?

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3 Comments

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Annie - posted on 09/09/2012

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Our son is exactly the same. A funny mix of mature and terribly behaved. I think it seems to go with cognitive development. My LO has sudden cognitive leaps followed by awesome behaviour and then suddenly he seems to decide he's been nice enough, thank you very much, and it falls to pieces. We have another cognitive jump and the cycle starts again. We just roll with it now. Enjoy the good times and survive the bad. Best of luck *hugs all around*

Julie - posted on 06/29/2012

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My son is the same age...and if he acts out, I try to remember to ask myself whether he's tired, hungry or frustrated...and it's usually one of those. You mentioned that he's been doing soccer and tee ball on top of school...So maybe he needs more sleep, and less activity...Is he still taking naps? Has it gotten better now that school is out? I hope so!

Kare - posted on 06/09/2012

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My 4 yr old daughter will be 5 in Nov. is doing the exact same thing as your son and it sounds like we have tried the same disciplines, with no luck here.