Arrrgh! 3.11yo is driving me mad

[eversoslightlytired]

My DS's behaviour is getting worse and worse and I am running out of ideas on how to deal with it. It is basically his attitude. If you tell him no to something he screams and shouts. If you tell him not to do something he stands there with hands on hips and then turns round and does it again, normally whilst looking straight at me. If you ask him to do anything he shouts no. If you tell him off he walks away muttering under his breath and then starts screaming and shouting!

What is the best way to deal with this out as I am getting so exasperated with him. I thought when we had DD 13 weeks ago that the bad behaviour or regression would happen then but it is only the last couple of weeks that he has got so bad. I just feel like I am constantly telling him off or shouting all the time and I hate it as when he is good (which has not been much this last fortnight) he is lovely.

I have tried talking, shouting, positive praise, taking things away from him, banning tv, banning his beloved Lady Gaga songs(!!) but to no avail. I feel like I am going mad and hate being so angry with him all the time.

Any advice would be gratefully received!

[eversoslightlytired]

Anyone??? Please???!!!!

[RhinestoneCowgirl]

It's something to do with being nearly 4 and a boy I think, DS is much nicer to know now (just about to turn 4). I remember him being truly horrible this time last year.

Some people say it's to do with a testosterone surge...

Only advice I can give is to hang on in there, carry on being calm and consistent. Try and give him some one-to-one attention (while the baby is asleep?) doing something with him that he really enjoys.

[RhinestoneCowgirl]

sorry that should read that DS is just about to turn 5

[eversoslightlytired]

Thanks Rhinestone. I have tried to give him more time whilst baby is sleeping as she is now in a sort of routine so it gives me a bit of time with him. You are right though, he is quite horrible!! Really biting my tongue at the moment. We are doing a "go and find the nice DS and come back when your find him" thing which gives him time to go away and calm down (and me!!!). God I'm looking forward to this bit being over with!

[RhinestoneCowgirl]

DS chose himself a 'cross corner' (his words) which he used to go and sit in when he was being really cross. Sometimes he would just sit there roaring. I would always let him know that he could have a cuddle if he wanted one, when he'd calmed down a bit.

[eversoslightlytired]

That's a good idea! Might try that one!