3.5 year old ds behaviour changed (yes that testosterone surge must be with us!)

[chipmunkswhereareyou]

Ds (3.5) was an extremely well-behaved, gorgeous and sweet little chap until about a week or two ago.

Since we got back from our holiday (so maybe jetlag is a factor but he doesn't seem tired), he's been way cheekier, trying to wind me up, messing around at mealtimes, saying he's hungry all the time when he clearly can't be etc. etc.

I don't know what's happened but I want my little sweet boy back!

Maybe it's that testosterone surge people on here and the Raising Boys author talks about...argh!!

How long does this last and what strategies are there for when he's trying to wind me up???

He has a star chart already but when he gets in this mood it doesn't seem to make as much difference as it used to.

You have been lucky to get to 3.5 without problems. My ds has just turned 3 and can be a handful when he feels like it. Most of the time he is good as gold, but it's taken us a long time to get to this stage and I'm enjoying the moment, as it could all change again.

Sorry no advice I'm afraid. They all go through their ups and down. Just be consistent and ignore some of the behaviour when he is just trying his luck with you.

He'll grow out of this stage and I'm sure it won't last for too long.

Actually he was a nightmare as a baby so I did my time earlier on

Yes I guess I just need to be firm and not seem wound up when he is trying to rile me. It's just a bit of a shock after him being so easy for such a long time....!

I totally understand. I've had days where I can't wait for bedtime! My ds was an angel as a baby and young toddler, it all caught up with me by the time he hit 2! Oh the joys