Dear Joyce,
My daughter just turned 3, and she is acting a little clingy right now. I am not sure if it’s because of her new baby brother, or if it’s just a phase. She is very social, but at times when I ask her to say hello to someone new, she gets shy and hides behind me. What I think is most frustrating right now is that she is obedient with me in private, but in new situations or around new people, she does not listen. I think she chooses to be stubborn in these times, and it seems like it’s getting harder to break. What should I do?
Thanks, Annette
Dear Annette,
Thanks for writing. I will say that children go through shy stages and that is okay. However, you continue to teach what is polite,
- “When someone says hello to you, you need to answer!â€
- “You can choose if you want to say ‘hello,’ or ‘hi!’â€
Practice with her at home – with dad, grandma or a friend. “Pretend I am Suzie,” and then role play. Give her praise when she is friendly. “That was very polite!â€
This is just a part of teaching social skills. Having a new baby brother can impact behavior because frankly her world has changed! Continue teaching and practicing through it all. When she hides behind you, get down to her level and pull her to your side and then coach her through it.
Keep in touch if this continues.
Love, Joyce