Every child has their moments—but certain behaviors, if left unaddressed, can grow into lasting issues. Instead of brushing them off, use these moments to teach respect, empathy, and responsibility.
1. Interrupting While You’re Speaking
Kids are naturally eager to share their thoughts, but letting them interrupt teaches them that their needs always come first.
Why It Matters:
✔ They miss the chance to develop patience and empathy.
✔ They may grow up expecting instant attention from everyone.
How to Handle It:
✔ Before taking a call or starting a conversation, explain that they need to wait.
✔ Offer a quiet toy or activity to keep them busy.
✔ If needed, calmly point them to a spot and say, “Sit here until I’m finished talking.”
✔ Let them know that interrupting won’t help them get what they want.
2. Rough Play or Physical Aggression
A little shoving or pinching might seem minor—but it sends the message that hurting others is okay.
Why It Matters:
✔ If left unchecked, roughness can become a habit by age eight.
✔ It damages friendships and builds poor conflict-resolution skills.
How to Handle It:
✔ Step in immediately—don’t wait.
✔ Say: “Janey was hurt. How would you feel if she did that to you?”
✔ Let them know the behavior is not acceptable.
✔ If it happens again, end the playdate or activity to reinforce the boundary.
3. Ignoring Instructions or Pretending Not to Hear You
When kids don’t respond the first time you ask, they’re learning that they can tune you out—and stay in control.
Why It Matters:
✔ Repeated reminders teach them that your words aren’t urgent or important.
✔ It can lead to power struggles and defiance.
How to Handle It:
✔ Get close, make eye contact, and speak directly.
✔ Ask them to respond with, “Okay, Mommy” to confirm they heard.
✔ Follow through with a clear consequence if they don’t act.
4. Eye-Rolling or Sarcastic Attitudes
Preschoolers may mimic sass from older kids or media—even if they don’t fully understand it.
Why It Matters:
✔ Dismissing it as “just a phase” can lead to chronic disrespect.
✔ It interferes with forming healthy peer relationships later on.
How to Handle It:
✔ Gently point it out: “When you roll your eyes, it seems like you don’t care about what I’m saying.”
✔ Stay calm—don’t shame them.
✔ If it continues, stop the conversation and walk away until they’re ready to engage respectfully.
5. Lying or Stretching the Truth
Even small fibs need to be addressed early before they become a go-to coping mechanism.
Why It Matters:
✔ Kids may start to lie to avoid consequences, gain approval, or control situations.
✔ If lying becomes a habit, it erodes trust.
How to Handle It:
✔ Calmly correct the story: “That doesn’t sound like what really happened.”
✔ Explain that trust is important—people won’t believe them if they lie.
✔ Get curious: “Why did you feel like you had to say that?”
✔ Help them problem-solve honestly next time.
Final Thought
These small moments can feel frustrating—but they’re opportunities to shape your child’s character. By calmly addressing misbehavior and setting consistent boundaries, you help your child grow into someone who’s respectful, empathetic, and emotionally strong.
