It’s Not Regression

A parent describes the stress her family has been experiencing over the past several months and guesses her 4.5 year old son has been particularly affected. “He was in Montessori and becoming awfully independent. Little by little, we’ve seen a huge regression in his behavior.” She describes a number of issues where she sees her lad regressing, including hitting, knocking and throwing things; disrespecting her body with unwanted touching; and an unwillingness to wipe himself after exercising the bathroom. This last matter recently induced a physical altercation which this mummy rightfully misses. She wants to know how to encourage her son’s developing independence “without resorting to negative and spiteful parenting tactics.” Janet offers her advice.