DISOBEDIENCE

                                                                    DISOBEDIENCE
                                                                                    

                          Most of a toddler's actions are aimed at attracting your attention. Thus, she may try speaking to you, crying, hitting you or annoying you. She is not particular whether the attention is positive or negative as long as she can catch your eye. Once you respond to her, she will smile or laugh at you. She will behave in an increasingly wilful manner in an attempt to assert her independence. Do not thwart her attempts at independence at every stage, although it may express itself as disobedience. This can lead to her developing a negative attitude in the future. Your baby will have frequent mood swings veering between extreme displays of affection and anger. The good news is that your child will become more participative in play and this is a good opportunity to teach them to share.

                 A naughty child is one who knows the difference between right and wrong, but lacks the maturity to exert self-control and do the right thing. They are usually apologetic and contrite when caught. However, often you will find that they are doing the exact same thing you had scolded them for doing just an hour ago. You have to be very patient with naughty children. Initially, you should try the sympathetic approach, speaking to them frequently. If this fails, punishment becomes necessary. Corporal punishment is not an option. Restricting or withdrawing privileges is much more effective. 


                     A disobedient child is one who deliberately flouts authority. Children like this really try your patience. A disobedient child is rarely contrite or apologetic. His defiance leads to confrontations. Remember that physical punishment is likely to lead to aggression and truculence on his part. A programme that is a combination of reasoning and positive reinforcement is recommended. Explain to the child that her activities are anti-social or dangerous and suggest how she should behave.