Sometimes, Preschoolers like to enter a destructive mode. Even though they can be sweet kids at times, there is still that part of them that is testing boundaries. Getting them into a more constructive mode takes a little bit of work on your part. So, here are some things you can do to help your Preschooler move away from their need to destroy things.
One of the things you can do to help is to recognize what things are the subject of your Preschooler’s rampages. These things should be removed directly out of your Preschooler’s range. Even though they may be pretty to display or the result of hard work, getting them out of sight is crucial to saving these items. When your Preschooler is older and less prone to taking things apart, you can take them out and display them as they were meant to be.
Another thing you can do is to redirect their energy into controlled destruction. Some examples of controlled destruction are allowing them to play in the mud on occasion or getting big pieces of paper so they can do a whole body painting. By allowing them to unleash themselves at times, they will have an outlet for their destructive energy.
On days that they are bouncing off the walls, turn that energy to creating something cool. Find all of the stuff that is left over and that they can play with. Then challenge your Preschooler to make something. Don’t set limits on their imagination. But do supervise any use of scissors or glue. If they are constructing something, they aren’t destroying things. In addition, you can introduce some fascinating science projects or some cool chemistry experiments to divert their attention. This will also help foster an interest in science.
Boredom is one of those things that trigger destructive behavior. So, it is essential to alleviate this by challenging them to come up with their own games and activities. This will help utilize their imagination and alleviate some of the boredom that they claim to have.
Anger is often a trigger of destructive behavior. So, create an alternate and safer means by which they can get rid of their anger. Punching bags, plastic bounce up toys and other safe items can direct their destruction away from your valuable items. You may want to create an anger zone where they can go to vent.
There are some things you can do to help redirect your Preschooler’s more destructive behavior. While some destructive behavior is normal, an excess of destructive behavior and an inability to control impulses will need further evaluation by your child’s Pediatrician.