Patient's question:
My son almost every day has to buy several toys. If I don't buy them for him, he will keep crying until he gets what he wants. He doesn't listen to reason and I can't bear to hit him. I really don't know what to do.Doctor's answer:
At this age, children are in a critical period of exploring the outside world, and many habits of interacting with the outside world are formed during this time. At this stage, children's sense of right and wrong is still very simple. If their suggestions are not appreciated, they will naturally feel dissatisfied, and crying is a normal expression. If parents give in to their children's demands at this time, it will create the mindset that children can use crying to force parents to satisfy their wishes, and this often escalates.Children at this age are highly curious and may dislike new things, so it is normal for them to insist on buying toys. The key lies in parents guiding them correctly. If parents always give in, children will think everything comes easily and will not cherish what they have. This will also destroy the ability to delay gratification and increase satisfaction, leading children to repeatedly ask for new toys to satisfy themselves.
It is advisable not to always give in to children. When they cry, provide comfort and companionship, but do not give in just because they are crying. Since children's bad habits have already formed, correcting them may take some time. It is essential to be patient—neither ignoring the child nor giving in to them unconditionally.
At the same time, parents should also make decisions about toys for their children, trying to guide them toward selecting many skill-enhancing and educational toys. I hope this helps you.