Dealing with bad habits
The mind of a child is like a sponge. The primary way in which children learn all that they know is by following example. While we try to teach them the best of habits, there is so much that we do not have any control over. Once children start school, or even watch TV, they learn or interpret things in ways that we may not always approve of.
Children between the ages of 2-5 years are considered to be the most impressionable. They have a tendency of picking up the good and bad habits. More often than not, they pick on the bad ones. Biting nails, pulling hair, spitting, and a lack of basic manners are common manifestations. At a point you may even begin to wonder if this is your child or not.
If you suddenly notice that your child has begun biting his nails or sucking on his thumb or incessantly twirling with his hair, understand that no amount of persuasion or punishment is going to help you break this habit. In fact the reverse may occur, where children will deliberately continue with the habit, in defiance of your words.
What should be done discreetly instead is to keep the hands of the young one’s occupied. If you find that these habits come into play when they are sitting idle, work out some activities for them. One of the simplest ideas is to give them bundles of newspaper and ask them to cut into neat strips. Have them fill a plastic bag with these strips till it is nice and full. Tie this back up tightly and hang it from a place they can reach. Let your children swing at this bag or bounce it around. Bottom line is that you would have kept them occupied and away from those irritating habits.
If you have observed these habits are bed time, then try making them hold a doll or the story book as you read to them. If all else fails, try getting them to hold your hands as they fall sleep or even hug you. For dealing with bad habits such as spitting on front of others or a lack of basic manners, you will have take on a stricter demeanor. Irrespective of the company you are in, your child will have to be scolded firmly. Introduce a time out so that your child knows you mean business.
There are some habits though, that remain rock steady despite all efforts. These are often very difficult to stop. There is no foolproof advice on what you can do. Each child is different and therefore you will have to work out a strategy of your own.
