Common Behavioral Problems in Pre-Schoolers and What to Do

As your child enters preschool, they begin to embrace independence. Interestingly, they may also start to exhibit new behaviors that may not sit well with you and may even seem "problematic". Different factors trigger these behaviors.

For example, basic needs, a change in the home environment, developmental changes, and the behavior of other people around them. Below, we highlight some behavioral problems you will likely encounter and how to handle them.

Throwing Temper Tantrums
Your preschooler is likely to throw a tantrum at one point or another. They may do so because they find managing emotions such as disappointment and anger difficult. They may also throw tantrums because they feel tired or hungry or simply to try to get what they need.

If you feel your toddler is likely to throw a tantrum, for example, at the store when you deny them a toy, you can prepare them. Let them know that you are visiting the store only for groceries. If later, they get a no from you, they will be better prepared to deal with their emotions. If you give in to their tantrums, they may be tempted to think that a tantrum will get them anything they want at any time.

Lying
Your preschooler may tell a lie either by bending the truth to keep themselves out of trouble or by blowing the truth out of proportion. Although this is normal, you need to address a preschooler's lying tendency early enough to prevent it from becoming a habit.

If you are sure your child is telling a lie, remain calm and ask them to tell you the truth. Try to explain the difference between a truth and a lie with examples. Also, let them know how lies can lead to trouble and compare how telling the truth would be less stressful and troublesome.
Stress the importance of honesty even if the truth has adverse consequences. Avoid name-calling and do not label them as a liar as this can create a wound that is harder to deal with than the actual lie.

Playing Rough
Children may kick, bite, hit, or throw items at their peers while playing. While aggression can worry you, it is common among preschoolers and may be triggered by feelings of anger or overwhelm. For example, a toddler may bite if an older child snatches a toy they were playing with, and they cannot get it back any other way. In other cases, the child may be testing your boundaries.

As a parent, you should have a zero-tolerance policy regarding rough play. Failure to act may cause your toddler to believe that hurting another person is acceptable. If you notice rough play, intervene on the spot.

Let your child know hitting is not allowed and seek to get them away from the situation. Encourage them to try to explain their feeling verbally when they feel upset.

Pretending Not to Hear
At one point or another, you will find yourself having to tell your toddler what to do three or four times. If your child disregards you and faces no consequences, they may think this behavior is acceptable.

If your child seems to be ignoring you, walk to them, lower yourself to get on their level, and tell them what you want them to do. Maintain eye contact with them and ensure they respond okay to whatever you say. You can repeat the instructions for emphasis and impose a consequence if they continue to ignore you.

At Riviera Daycare & Preschool, we believe your child should have the best start in life. We can offer you friendly facilities, and our professional staff members are dedicated to ensuring your child socializes, learns, and thrives. Reach out to us today to schedule a visit.