What it Really Means When Your Child Interrupts You
When you're trying to have an adult conversation for longer than 30 seconds or concentrate on a project, it can get pretty frustrating to have a little person constantly interrupting you.
In this episode, we dive into the reasons why the interruptions are happening and also give some strategies to help manage them. (Hint: it's all about the Montessori grace and courtesy lessons!)
I'm Aubrey Hargis, Montessorian and mom of two. Children are funny little creatures, aren't they? They aren't like us adults. They have entirely different needs, desires, and motivations. It's up to us to meet them more than halfway, and that means taking direct steps to learn more about child development, because education is a journey we take with our children, and the opportunities for learning start over every day.
Hello there sweet friends!
Today we are talking about why children sometimes interrupt you over and over and how to help your child change this behavior.
But first, some personal news: Montessori 101 has been archived indefinitely. If you want to hear a little more about it, you can listen to my statement in this episode….or skip right by it. Whatever you need! (2:20)
A Question From a Mama
A member of Constellation, my membership group, asked: "Can you talk about interrupting and ‘LOOK AT ME!’? I feel like all my husband and I say to our 4yo during meals and on family walks is wait, be patient, and don't interrupt. I have tried several strategies but none have been very effective.
Also, maybe it is just being home so much now, but every second is a watch this or look at me moment. I don't typically praise him or throw ‘good job’ around, so I'm not sure where this is coming from (although I do have a 6 month old). Suggestions for conveying grace and courtesy lessons would be very helpful." (15:00)
Solving The Interruption Problem:
Think of this as a mystery to be solved! Remember: behavior is communication.(15:45)
Be clear with your expectations. (16:43)
Do some role playing; try some grace and courtesy lessons! (20:40)
Give them an appropriate physical way to signal that they need your attention. (26:24)
Be consistent in your acknowledgement and redirection. (27:40)
Understand that sometimes this is the child’s way of telling you they are anxious about being lost/left behind. Address the anxiety, give reassurance physically, stop and look in their eyes and tell them WHEN you will be available. (28:58)
Gratitude (33:26)
Today I am grateful for all those times my children interrupted me; for those feelings of irritation and my ability to work through those situations with patience. I am grateful for the patience to repeatedly offer these grace and courtesy lessons, too!