what to do when a child wont leave the house or get dressed?

Question

my granddaughter wont get dressed, she clings to her mother ,throws fits, tries to hurt herself, she ask for something and when you get it for her she doesn't want it, but she keeps crying for it, she acts like she is afraid of everything, she will be 3 years old next week, the last two weeks have really been bad, any suggestions

Answer 1

There sound like things happening in the child's life that you may not know about. If she will talk to you about what is bothering her, try it. If not I think you will need to bring in professional assistance. Children's Aid should be able to provide a source of assistance.

Answer 2

This little girl is testing her limits and boundries and she is confused because the adults in her life are giving her too much control. Children need rules and boundries for them to feel safe, thrive and grow. Children want to know what is expected of them and do much better with a routine.
A great book to check out is ages and stages.

Answer 3

I think a good butt whooping should do the trick. I pulled that junk when I was a toddler. My dad beat the living daylights out of me and I promise you I got up and did what I was told. When she pretends she doesn't want it after asking you to go get it say this. "Look next time you ask for something I'm not going to go get it so you either take or I'm not getting anything else." Ignore her when she keeps crying that is simply a cry for attention. You ignore the child they will stop. When she tries to hurt herself say this "Yeah hurt yourself. I'm not going to help you." Unless she is SERIOUSLY trying to hurt herself. There was a problem like this on super-nanny. Watch that show. It helps millions.

Answer 4

This is one frustrated little kid. Too many choices. Just start telling her - this is what you are wearing and put it on her. We are going now - and carry her out. The choices are too hard for her, her mother should be making them and standing firm. She is spoilt . Don't allow her to cry and recieve things. She gets them when she is good. If she doesn't want it anymore - it's in the bin, gone and she gets nothing else.

Answer 5

Sounds like of like she'd like a chance to exert some control over her world. Have mom lay out two outfit choices. Ask her, "Do you want the red shirt or the blue shirt?" and then stick with it.

If she has to, take her to the car in her PJ's and take the clothes along to change her once they arrive. She may be more cooperative then.

Answer 6

Yes, counseling for your granddaughter and her mother. If they can't manage things, then they should seek help. It's the only responsible thing to do.