How Do You Handle A Childs Aggression?
Aggression is common in young children. Hitting, biting, kicking and pushing are all forms of aggression seen in children. While aggression usually peaks in the toddler years, most children grow out of it by the time they are five- to six-years-old. Dealing with aggression takes patience and consistency from parents and caregivers. Read on to learn how to handle a child’s aggression. Discuss behavior expectations with the child. Be specific about what is acceptable. For instance, instead of simply saying “Don’t kick,” try “Kicking hurts others. Use your words.” Be consistent. Remaining consistent with punishment for undesired behavior lets the child know the consequences for his actions. Be a behavior model for the child. Avoid angry outbursts or violence. Figure out if the child is acting undesirably to fill a need. Attention, control and security are all reasons a child may act aggressively. If it is one of these reasons, fill the void. Help the child act in a way that is acceptable.
