SAEDNEWS: If your child tends to hit other kids, please avoid punishing them. The root of this behavior is often fear. Punishing them can increase this fear and, consequently, the likelihood of more aggressive behavior. Instead, try the strategies outlined below.
According to SAEDNEWS, children of various ages may get into conflicts. But what should you do if another child behaves aggressively towards your child during play? There are two basic rules to follow when dealing with other people's children: never tell another parent how to raise their child, and never reprimand a child who is not your own. Parents have their own ways of handling their child's behavior, and while you may wish your friend would discipline their child more firmly, it’s not your place to decide. However, there are ways to protect your toddler from a rough playmate.
Resist any urge to vent your frustration on your friend’s child or the child who is bothering your child. They are merely testing their limits, as toddlers do. Regardless of how upset you are about the other parent's lack of intervention, do not take it out on their child.
Children are more perceptive than adults think and have a strong sense for negative emotions. If they sense your anger, their behavior may worsen.
Instead of scolding the other child, sit down and carefully observe both children. When you see a conflict brewing, distract them with a noisy toy or by singing a song. When your friend’s child manages to share a toy with your child without causing trouble, praise their kind behavior.
Eventually, like any other toddler, they will start learning how to behave and get along with other children during playtime.
You can also suggest changing the location for playdates. Toddlers are more prone to misbehavior in small spaces like a living room. Moving the playdate to a larger open space like a playground or park can reduce opportunities for conflict.
With more room to move around, toddlers can burn off extra energy and release social frustrations without bothering each other. Additionally, there won’t be any toys or books to throw or fight over.
If the above strategies do not work and your toddler seems increasingly upset and scared by the other child's behavior, consider separating them for a while. The combination of these children might not be suitable for your child at the moment, and asking your child to cope with mistreatment teaches them nothing.
Separating the children could also initiate a conversation with the other parent about the reasons, paving the way for finding a long-term solution.
