My DD (5) used to be such a happy go lucky girl, she was polite and friendly to everyone, happy to just sit talking or colouring and now it seems like everything causes a massive issue and tantrum.
For some background me and DD dad separated two years ago, he moved straight in with his GF and couldn't have DD overnight or more than a couple hours 1-2 times a week for a few months, and that was a very confusing time for her. Since then we have struggled with bedtimes, but now her entire behaviour seems to have changed.
From the minute she wakes up until she goes to bed she finds issue with something. Getting dressed, having her hair done, eating anything other than snacks, having to sit down and wait for food. She will scream, stamp her feet, run away from me, occasionally hit me. We go through stages where her behaviour is better but everyday currently she has having several meltdowns daily.
I try to give her warning of things happening, give her options with outfits and ask whether she needs help but she seems to have very little patience and if she struggles with anything it causes an immediate crying fit rather than asking for help.
She currently spends 2 nights a week at her dad's and I find myself dreading going anywhere or doing anything because I know I will have to try and discipline her and she won't take any notice at all. I find everyday so exhausting with her. At her kindest she tells me what a wonderful mummy I am and how much she loves me, but 5 minutes later she can be calling me fat or crying if I take my make up off because I'm ugly, and then tells me she's only joking.
Sorry for the essay, just wondering if anyone had an experience or advice, I feel so stressed out and angry, I just cry most days at her behaviour.