Need some help with my son
So my son just turned four and will absolutely not listen to anything me or my wife say. When we try to talk to him, he just constantly interrupts and often with things that are completely irrelevant to what we're talking about. (i.e. talking about having to wait to go for a walk, he'll yell and scream at the top of his lungs, then say something like "Orange cats are nice."). Flying off the handle any time either of us say no or try to set a boundary. Is this normal? My wife and I are losing our minds trying to counter it and handle it.
@deezasqueeza
😔
I'm sorry it's so difficult for you.
It can be quite hard reasoning with a young child.
It's about patience and consistency and knowing you are doing a great job, that's what matters most.
He is pushing the boundaries.
It's important to be firm but fair and set boundaries.
Wishing you the best of luck!
@deezasqueeza
The constant interruption and yelling about something randomly may suggest more than pushing boundaries. Have you Spoken to your pediatrician about this.
trying something different may be needed to find ways he is listening and can know boundaries.
We did, he had his 4 year appointment last week. The doctor didn't seem too concerned. But we have noticed a difference in just the last day or so, as if his brain needed to catch up with his body or something.
@deezasqueeza
Children often struggle to listen at this age, so you’re not alone in this experience. My kids faced similar challenges during this stage. One strategy I found helpful was establishing a routine and providing clear, one-step instructions. Additionally, I focused on using positive reinforcement to encourage good listening and following directions. Continue setting boundaries and don't give up once he understands you're serious about the routine. By rewarding him for listening, he should become more engaged.
Have you ever thought about getting him tested for autism? I have a 4 year old daughter that was diagnosed with autism at 3 years old. She is very high functioning but I always knew ever since was about 10 months old that something was different. When my daughter is being miss extra extra and she’s in my personal space, I tell her “boundaries please. (Extend my body up) you’re in my bubble (while extending my hands out) I don’t feel safe when you’re too close.” I also say always watch the tone in which you give to your wife, same goes for your wife from her to you. Always pay attention because if mom and dad are able to talk like that to each other, then they will feel comfortable to talk to you and your wife in that same tone. But I hope this helps! Sorry for it being so long!! Bye!
@deezasqueeza
I'm sorry it's so difficult for you and your wife. Children can be very difficult to reason with and a lot of skills can be tested as a parent. Skills on resilience, strength and consistency etc. ☺️
It's really normal to feel like you and your wife can't handle it and it's okay, there are no perfect parents out there. Plus 4 yr old kids often pushing the boundaries of what parenthood means at that age.
I think it's really important to be firm, kind and be strong in your boundaries as parents but also remember to be fair on him as a 4 yr old. ❤️❤️
I wish you both of best of luck and you are never alone 🙌 If you ever feel the need to vent, talk or have someone listen to you, this community is great for that 😊