Long time lurker, first time poster. Looking for help as I’m at my wit’s end.
My DS is 3 and has been at the same nursery for over a year now, 3 days a week. Very clingy on drop off but happy enough. Always has a good day and has come on leaps and bounds.
The problem is when I go to pick him up. I see him through the window playing calmly but as soon as I go in the room and he sees me, it’s like a switch flips. He gives me a big hug then runs off and starts throwing things on the floor, jumping on tables and pulling at other kids’ clothes.
Then once we leave the room he runs off and I end up having to chase him all round the nursery before I can get his coat on and get out. By the time we leave I’m frustrated, sweating and feel like a failure of a mum as it seems I can’t control my child. I see other parents looking as if there is something wrong with him or like he is really naughty.
As soon as we start walking home he’s back to normal, calm, chatting, lovely and sweet.
Anyone else have this problem? Or tips on how to tame him to make pickup a bit calmer? Or are some kids just wild at this age and grow out of it?!