One of the hardest things about being a parent is remembering that our children are just that: children. I know that I often find myself expecting more than I should. Then I have to remind myself he is only seven or she is just three and that they can’t be expected to do or remember what I was asking or expecting.
For example every morning my son gets up when he hears my husband gets in the shower. He goes to the bathroom and lets the toilet lid slam shut with a loud “bang.” This of course often wakes up one or both of my daughters who are then grumpy for the rest of the day because they got up an hour earlier than they normally would. It seems like no matter how many times we remind our son to put the lid down softly he forgets. He often tells me, “I have so many things to remember I just forget.” Then I have to remind myself that he is only seven and he does have a lot to remember both at home and school. He isn’t purposely being malicious just forgetful.
As a parent it is important that we know and understand the developmental stages that our children go through. In fact being aware of developmental stages is one of the ten things that happy families do.
It is perfectly normal for a one year old to throw their food on the floor. They are just exploring what happens. It is equally normal for your two year old to throw a tantrum when they don’t get their way. Or for your ten year old to suddenly decide that you shouldn’t come in their room without permission. These are all part of development.
When parents understand that their child isn’t being intentionally malicious or rebellious but is just going through a natural development stage it is easier to deal with it. It doesn’t make it easy, just easier because you understand better why the behavior is occurring.
So before you get too upset when your children misbehave consider their developmental stage. After all it is probably just a normal part of childhood.
See these related blogs:
Stimulating Your Baby’s Motor Skills