The grump has landed

[Piazzapiola]

DS1 is 3.3yo and in the last couple weeks has changed into Mr. Grumpy Chops.

No mummy!
Go away mummy!
Be quiet mummy!
I want to be alone mummy!
Not fair mummy!

When I say grumpy I really mean rude!

He's in good health, gets enough sleep I think, is generally a happy little boy.

I think he's just getting to the age of pushing boundaries etc but DP is worried he's turning into a really rude and naughty boy.

Tell me about your 'grumpy and rude' three years old and what your coping tactics are??!!!

Also, DS2 is 1yo and I've just started back at work. Am sure all the change is also having an impact....

Dd is 3.1 and her fave word is 'No!' She pushes me away if she doesn't want a cuddle. She can be the loveliest little girl in the world, coming up to give me kisses etc but it is definitely all on her terms! Ds, 4.6, was the same at about that age but, although he does have some moments, is more amenable now.

I don't force or cajole her to give me a kiss btw; I usually just say, "Fair enough I'll leave you alone," and walk away; generally she'll change her mind and want to give me a love! If she's really rude then I'll tell her that rudeness gets her nowhere, walk away and insist she talks to me properly before I answer her.

You've just described my DD who is just about to turn 3. Man, she's hard work at the moment.

I've found that challenging her stubbornness just makes her worse - I'm certainly no match for it(!) so I try and go for a playful response when I remember and can muster up the enthusiasm or distraction.
And plenty of praising the good stuff and telling her my expectations in advance.
Her sister was the same and is now reasonably civilised so there is hope.

I swear my 3yo would argue black was white at the moment!

Every other word is no or a reasoned argument about why she should or shouldn't be allowed to do something!

When she's in a no mood I just ask tonnes of stupid questions that usually gets a laugh, or if I'm bored of reasoning I just repeat 'yes,yes,yes' over and over until she gives up or laughs.

I figure I have to do something to keep myself sane!