My DS turned 3 last week. His behaviour is generally fine, he loves sharing, loves family activities and meeting others. If he goes for a snack he makes sure to get the same for his sister who is 6 years older than him.
He however since he was smaller hits his sister and in recent months hits me too, sometimes even kicks. He has not done this to his dad or anyone else.
I have tried everything from stern nos, to time outs, to ignoring, to distracting him, naughty step, to calmly ask what is wrong. Although the situation diffuses fast his hitting behaviour is still present. He knows what soft hands are and sometime will say 'no hitting, mummy hurt, soft hands'
I thought he would grow out of it, thought as communication gets better, which it is, then the hitting would stop and also put it down to crankiness/tiredness which seems to be a factor 90% of the time.
But on some days after a good sleep, his playing with his sister and will get upset over something then will hit her.
I'm not sure what else I can do? Worried I may be making it worse.....