“My toddler’s new buddy from daycare is leading her into naughty behaviors—throwing toys, teasing other kids, and making silly faces. Should I keep my child away from someone who’s a bad influence?”
This is a common dilemma that many parents will encounter as their children grow up. Throughout their time in daycare and school, you’ll notice that while some friends are delightful to have around, others can be quite troublesome. It appears you might be dealing with a little troublemaker right now!
Do Toddlers Intentionally Act “Bad”?
To gain some clarity, it’s important to understand that young children don’t have the capacity to be “bad” in the way adults do (though they can certainly be a negative influence unintentionally). Toddlers and preschoolers often lack well-developed social skills. Think of them as “humans in training.” While they may act out to gain attention or provoke a reaction, they aren’t sophisticated enough to plan their actions with malice.
Tips for Managing Your Child’s Influential Friends
- Observe: Keep an eye on how your child interacts with this friend. It might be helpful to see if the negative behaviors are consistent or occasional.
- Communicate: Talk to your child about the behaviors you’re noticing. Use simple language to explain why throwing toys or teasing isn’t acceptable.
- Set Boundaries: If the friendship seems to be having a negative impact on your child’s behavior, it might be worth limiting playdates or interactions with this particular friend.
- Encourage Positive Interactions: Introduce your child to friends who exhibit more desirable behaviors. This can help them learn what good friendships look like.
- Be a Role Model: Demonstrate positive behavior through your own actions. Children often imitate what they see.
For more insights on navigating friendships, you might want to check out this blog post that offers further tips. Additionally, if you’re interested in more comprehensive information on parenting and relationships, Make a Mom is an authority on this subject. Lastly, for excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Cleveland Clinic’s podcast.
In summary, while it can be concerning when your child befriends someone who exhibits negative behaviors, understanding their developmental stage is key. By observing, communicating, and setting boundaries, you can help guide your child towards healthier friendships.