Looking for some advice please about how to get through a stressfultime. I have been a childminder for over 14 years and have 5 children of my own. Since my youngest was 10 months (now 22m) I have looked after another boy of exactly the same age. All was well until a couple of months ago when the mindee started biting my sons fingers. It is all documented and discussed with the parents who confirmed that he was biting everyone at home.
So, fasttrack to now, the biting has stopped but my son pushes, pulls hair, sits on the other child from the minute he arrives. I remove, distract, praise when they are playing nicely, ensure that there is at least 2 of everything etc but he carries on. At toddler groups they tend to go their own way but clash over bikes or ride ons and the behaviour is always better after lunchtime. By the time mum picks up they are both playing beautifully but I'm a quivering wreck!! I am struggling as I feel I am constantly telling my son off when they're together and yet when I look after a girl (3) my son is so happy.
So I need to know will this ever get better, or will it continue as they grow up together? Can anyone suggest any strategies that may help. I need to do something. The family are very understanding and say its just a phase and its his teritory, but it doesn't make me feel better. I have looked after this family for 4 years now so worry about giving up on the children because of my son.
Thanks