why do kids look right at you while they are doing something they shouldn't?

Question

Lol..my son...was just staring at me, as he tried to sneak my phone..this boy is hilarious.

of course I tell him no when he can't have something..I chuckle inside..I wouldn't let him see me laugh..that would only make him want to do it more.

Answer 1

I thought you were talking about my son. Oh wait, you were!! He does the same thing with a look on his face that says "Let's see if mommy is paying attention." LOL It's sometimes even funnier when he does get it and starts pretending to talk to someone!!

Answer 2

Every child does this. He's looking for boundaries. Kids crave structure and boundaries but at this age, they need to know where you stand on certain things. And, yes, even though he now knows where you stand on the phone... it's still too tempting to pass up :) Also, they're looking for consistency. Therefore, if you tell him "no" one time and then not the next, he's going to get confused and this will be an on-going phone battle to the end :) Be consistent and stick to your guns.

Answer 3

Sometimes because they want your attention. Years ago, when I had young kids and a job that required me to be on the phone some when I was home, that phone had only a 25 foot cord. (Pre-cordless phones) And, my son would sit 28 away and do something he knew would drive me crazy. Of course, on a business call, I couldn't deal with it unless I got off the phone. And, when I did, guess who had won?

Answer 4

Don't let him know you think it's funny. That becomes a great way to get them to continue doing something they aren't supposed to.

My kids do the same thing. Basically, the main reason kids know they are or are not to do something is because they get in trouble, not because they have an understanding of WHY it's wrong. So up to a certain point, they pretty much figure they can do something and it's okay, as long as they don't get caught.

As they get older, they begin to understand they can't touch the stove because it's hot, they can't get into the refrigerater because they don't need to snack all the time, they can't play with cell phones because they can break, etc.

Answer 5

They are just testing their limits. If you laugh, the mischief begins, if not, they get the point. If they are truly doing unacceptable things, a stern look with a solid warning should do it. Also, just like with puppies, you have to redirect their attention.

Answer 6

as if to say, "see what i am doing? you said no, right?" lol. he's being a typical child. set your boundaries and stick to them. i can remember actually having to leave the room a few times when mine were little so they wouldn't see or hear me laugh. just part of the joys of being a mom. i wouldn't change a single minute of the past 19 yrs of it!!! :)
mom of two beautiful children

Answer 7

He is looking at you to see if you are going to say NO or not.
He's looking for boundaries. If you don't want him to take your phone you hopefully said "NO" while looking him back in the eyes and took the phone from him.
(and yeah, it is funny. my boy does the same thing. it cracks me up but I try to not react because I KNOW he's up to no good and I don't want him to think I am approving, kwim?)

Answer 8

he doesnt want your phone, lol he just wants you to see him taking it, my son often sits with the biggest grin on his face trying to get something he knows he shouldnt just to see my reaction.

its nothing to do with you not giving him enough attention, hes just wanting to play a game and knows thats a good way to get you to play with him

Answer 9

LOL my daughter does that, i just pretend not to look then i scare her!! haha she is going on 4, and is being a defiant little butt now. but she is a good kid so i cna't complain

Answer 10

to make sure you're paying attention...my 13 month old does it all the time, & I also have to look away so she won't see me laugh :)