Aggressive Behaviour

Responding to Toddlers & Preschoolers Aggressive Behaviour

Notice your children when they are getting along or playing cooperatively, make a comment and let them know you are pleased with how they are behaving!   Supervise play closely when children are toddlers or preschoolers, they are just beginning to learn how to get along and need adult assistance.

Practice using the following 3 steps

First, tell them clearly what behaviour is unacceptable (“Stop pinching”)

Second, acknowledge their feelings and tell them what they could do instead (“I know you are upset but use your words to ask for your toy back”)

Third, give them a short reason why the behaviour is unacceptable. (“Pinching hurts”)

When the incident is over, let it go.  Toddlers and preschoolers do not have long memories.

Deal with incidents as they occur and then move on.

Remember, it takes time to help a young child learn appropriate behaviour.