Samuel has taken to teasing his "baby" sister! Well, I guess she's not really a baby anymore, she's almost three years old. Just about every time he sees her he gets this devious grin on his face and either says her name (also in a devious fashion), or he reaches out to her with his hand kind of like a "claw" and "growls" at her. The whole time he does it he's just grinning and giggling away. Why? Because he is "rewarded" with shrieks and screams from her!
I'm trying to make her understand that her reaction is what he is really after, it's not so much that he wants to physically go after her. However, in her defense, he has pulled her hair and pushed her down enough times that she does see the need to fight back. How do I convince her that the best way for her to "fight back" to his teasing is just to ignore him?! So far it's not working. Instead, she screams bloody murder and then one of her other two big brothers plays knight in shining armor and some kind of wrestling match or brawl ensues!
We're having countless outbursts of this throughout our days at home right now!
9 comments:
i can relate to this too - jaden loves to hear his little sisters squeal...he loves to scare everyone, but especially them! it's always harmless - just trying to get that reaction out of them...but boy is it annoying - "mama, jaden's scaring me again!"
This is so hard to deal with!! And it just goes on so often that it's hard to be effective and consistent.
Um, but you probably knew that already.
I have been a lurker here but just had to comment as I face this daily with my Aspie and his siblings!!! His sister in particular responds with tears despite repeated requests and talks with her to just ignore him. I could go on and on but suffice it to say this household can relate and thanks for the chance to vent a bit!
Actually Mrs. C, that's a good point that I didn't really touch upon. How on earth can I possible follow the kids around all day to keep these encounters from occurring! I do have a bit of relief when Samuel's helpers are with us, but even then he is just obsessed with the teasing and a lot of energy is spent keeping him from doing so.
Thanks for your comment green! Interesting how I'm getting comments from families dealing with Aspergers Syndrome!
We have also experienced this with our little sister. I tried the 'extinction' thing and of course, had the same result. What I have begun to try is this:
Toby wants attention. So I have had Em start to chase him around instead and (with help if needed) she gets to squeeze him real tight and give him a lot of kisses. (She has also felt the need to chase and hit and push him down.) He was taken aback enough and yet happy enough with the attention to really see a decrease in this behavior. Hope it lasts ...
Guess I should post this on my blog... I found your blog from All about my boys' blog.
Take care, I look forward to 'meeting' you ..
Michele
Hi Michele! Thanks for your comment, I'll have to try your strategy. I'm sure his little sister would love the chance to "attack" him!
I'll see if I can hook up with your blog through Kaber's.
Mine do this ad nauseum too. My almost 3 year old has taken to screeching the most ear shattering screech imaginable if my Autie comes within a few feet of her. It has added a new level of challenge to my life.
It get's better.....I promise you so! The effort, love, guidance, and undeniable devotion you display as a parent will be a reward which will eventually have it's rewards. The best to you and yours! ...great blogs you have going on here:-)
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