Children need to be well supervised by their parents even when they reach their teenage years. When parents are able to keep an eye on their kids, they can guide them towards the right path and avoid major behavioral issues that are common in the growing up years.
A child’s behavior is influenced by various factors in his environment. As such, parents are responsible for closely monitoring them from early childhood when rapid growth and development occurs.
Here are some warnings signs you need to watch for to ensure that your children’s behavior does not get out of control and they grow up to be responsible and respectable individuals.
Clingy
When a child becomes clingy, it could be a sign that he or she needs reassurance and support. Take note of the sudden change in his behavior such as before or after going to a babysitter or before he or she goes to school. Parents need to find out why their child suddenly becomes clingy during certain times. Psychologists point out that separation anxiety is normal but when a clingy attitude becomes frequent, it could mean that the kid does not receive the right attention and care.
Disobedient
A kid who disobeys his babysitter or parent may be having a problem. If this is the case, it is important for parents to come up with a plan of action. This should be discussed with the caretaker or babysitter to ensure that your rules are followed. Continued disobedience from your child means that the sitter may not be enforcing your disciplinary actions.
Frequently Get into Accidents
“Frequent accidents experienced by your child can be a warning sign that he or she is not properly supervised by the caretaker,” according to attorney Samantha Greene, a San Diego child abuse lawyer. “It could also signal a case of physical abuse hence, parents need to look into the problem right away to determine what action to take,” she added. Take note that it’s normal for an active child to get scratches and bruises but when the child is physically hurt due to unexplainable accidents, that’s another story.
Not Comfortable With Babysitter
When it comes to babysitters, it’s normal for kids to feel uneasy in the presence of a person babysitting them for the first time. However, they should be able to adjust in due time. If the child, though, continues to be uncomfortable with the caretaker, there must be something wrong.
Short Attention Span
A child who is having a hard time paying attention and is hyperactive can have ADHD or the so-called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. If the hyperactivity is frequent coupled with an impulsive behavior, you should consult with a child psychologist to determine the problem and how you can help your child.
Keep in mind that children can experience a variety of behavioral and mental conditions hence it is important for parents to be observant to be able to know the warning signs.
Originally posted on January 5, 2016 @ 3:04 pm