What’s a “Threenager?” If you have to ask, you most likely don’t have one! A Threenager is a willful little three-year old with the attitude capability of a sixteen year-old yet oddly enough, they’re most likely just finished potty training and not remotely close to getting a period or dropping their voice four vocal tones lower. A Threenager can’t help his or her feisty and demanding little self. It’s just another stage of development that happens in our kiddo’s developmental journey. As a parent though, it helps to drink wine and enjoy nap times. Appreciate the silence when your tiny dictator is asleep. Here are three signs you have a feisty dictator of a three-year old running rampant in your home:
#1 You’re Always Wrong
Your three year-old will always go against what you say. If you say black, he says white. If you say, “Why don’t you wear this today?” your three year-old will take that outfit, spit on it, and throw it out and promptly wear something that’s ridiculously inappropriate like a dress in zero degree weather.
Your Threenager is simply learning how to make choices and become a “person.” It will drive you insane but alas, it’s a normal stage of development.
#2 Moody Much?
Does your three year-old seem happy one minute and mad the next? It’s not easy being told what to do constantly exactly at the same time in your life when you feel so very independent! I mean, you can go on the potty and feed yourself. Why can’t I do whatever I want, your three year-old thinks? The tantrums and joyous peaks are all a part of recognizing one’s limits while realizing the joy that a growing independence can bring.
#3 Pushing Limits
Does your Threenager push your limits, doing things intentionally in order to make you absolutely crazy?
Congrats! You’ve got a healthy child, mom or dad!
Your child is simply learning how far he or she can push you until you break. This nerve-wracking behavior is teaching your child limits, boundaries, expectations and more. He or she is learning your parenting style and actually wanting you to enforce limits. It makes your kiddo feel safe and secure.
Dealing with a Threenager can be trying but there are also so many joys to the wonderful year of three. And if you disagree, don’t worry. Soon the next stage of your child’s development will come along and rear new joys and challenges for you!
Look familiar?
