discussion title:
five year old tantrums
Help! My five-and-a-half year old seems uncontrollable, particularly when she's very tired. Last night was the most embarrassing. We were in the grocery store and she just laid on the floor and screamed. Of course everyone stared, but I try to tune that out (even though we live in a small town). I have never spanked, and have always heard not to do it in public to humiliate, so I remained calm throughout the entire ordeal but when we got to the car I very calmly told her that her behavior was unacceptable and popped her bottom with my hand. She couldn't believe it, but that didn't help and she kept on all the way home, during which time I told her that she would not be able to stay up to celebrate New Year's Eve (which I had forewarned in the store about if she did not behave). When we got home I brushed her teeth and put her straight to bed. I always try to be consistent and stick to my guns, hard as that may be.
This happens a lot. There are other factors. She is a middle child. I also have a three-year-old, who I am concerned about witnessing this behavior. She also has episodes like this, usually when she is tired as well. I am obviously learning not to take them out when they are over-tired, but sometimes it is necessary. I have also tried to let them catch up on sleep during Christmas break, but have trouble getting them to bed early and they won't sleep in. I am concerned there are other things going on with my five-year-old, who is in kindergarten. She only does this for me, and is really attached to her "mommy". I realize she is "playing" me, and have tried all kinds of ways to NOT egg it on, but nothing works and I'm not sure what to do. I do feel like she has some self-esteem issues. Any suggestions? Sorry this is so long, but I am desperate.
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