My grand-daughter is 4 1/2. She's bright, pretty, stubborn, and funny. The problem is she tries to make everything funny including school.?

Question

She's in pre k-4 which is a very important year in learning. She finds the humor or silliness in everything. Everything turns into a joke and a then a battle......homework, bath-time, getting dressed, eating her meals, bedtime, you name it and it turns into silliness and then usually a battle to make her do what needs to be done.  We talk to her, give her time-outs, withhold  things she wants and likes to do. We're at the pulling out our hair stage. Is this normal for a 4 year old? I don't remember this when her mother was this age.  Has anybody else had this problem and if so what worked? Thanks. (spanking is off the table)

? · Answer

I won't over think this.  She is only 4.  This is normal for many kids.  It is her way of taking control.  If her behavior is inappropriate and is wasting time, you best bet is not to buy into it.  If she isn't dressed there are two choices :  1) Go in pajamas or 2) don't go.  I know that sounds extreme, but I promise you if miss a play date or school, it will have an impact.  Same thing for dinner - I promise she won't starve -- if she hasn't eating in an acceptable amount of time, remove the food and move on.  Is there a bedtime routine?  If the child complies with bath and getting ready, then there is a story.  If there are shenanigans, Mommy simply says "Times up.  Maybe tomorrow you'll be ready in time for a story. Good night" and leaves.  The child will not die without a story or getting tucked in.  Consistency is the key. There may be tears and a tantrum, but once the child feels the boundaries, she is very likely to get her sillies under control.

jlb · Answer

She's 4.  All of that sounds like par for the course at that age.  And since when do 4 year olds get homework??  Jeez.

Try making things into games too.  Like a race to get dressed or play time in the bath.  Make sure she is getting enough time to run and play each day.  You could also try telling her to be serious while she eats but that you will have silly time after she is done.

Star L · Answer

go along with it! try to make it fun yourself then it will be easier for her to do! If homework is fun then it will be more fun to do it!

My grand-daughter is 4 1/2. She's bright, pretty, stubborn, and funny. The problem is she tries to make everything funny including school.?

3 Answers