For many parents, it can be surprising when their child who normally exhibits good behavior starts behaving badly. This change in behavior is not only concerning but causes parents to have to think on their feet about how to handle their kids, and how to approach this new issue. The reasons for this change could vary, and you may be in the dark at first.
Whatever is happening, it can be really frustrating and disheartening as a mom to witness this change in behavior. If it's a sudden change, moms can be sure that some event likely happened to upset your child.
If the change in behavior is more gradual, it could be something as simple as just your child growing up, experiencing hormonal changes, or perhaps they're having an issue they've been having with school or friends that just keeps getting worse.
Reasons For Bad Behavior Vary
Depending on how old your child is, there can be a few other things going on. Younger kids may start acting out because they're experiencing an issue. Maybe they are struggling with a school subject or sport. Perhaps they had a falling out with their best friend that is talking a toll.
Kids in elementary school may also change their behavior if they perhaps have an undiagnosed sensory issue or learning disability causing them to struggle.
If this change in behavior started with school, reach out to your child's teacher to see if they're having been any behavior changes at school too. Their pediatrician is also a good resource and can help with some referral if you need to consult professional help.
In most cases, elementary students who are acting out need some extra attention. In an NPR interview with a parenting author Katherine Reynolds Lewis, it's suggested that young kids may need more power in their own lives to build their self-worth. These can be fixes like allowing children to pick out their own clothes, pack their lunch and even playing more outside with friends without parent interaction. Less screen time is also a note-worthy suggestion.
Preteens and teenagers are dealing with a whole other set of issues that may cause bad behavior. Not only are their hormones raging but their whole lives are changing. They're no longer little kids and have much bigger issues.
The transition from elementary to middle school and then middle school to high school can be challenging for many kids. They spend more time with peers and friends and are desperate to fit in. When your child starts acting out, make sure that you set clear expectation for them.
Tell them there is no yelling or disrespect allowed, and they must follow the house rules. Older teens should have to follow curfews and open communication to ensure they're safe. When teens don't have a lot of supervision or guidance trouble can easily find them. Thankfully, the teenage years are temporary.
Very Well Family suggest that once parents have set the expectations they expect, they must also instill consequences for children and teens that are also consistent. Don't be hesitant to ask questions or voice your concerns either. If there is a change in behavior, theirs a reason for it.
Source: Empowering Parents, Very Well Family, NPR