Almost 6 year old

[jgale]

My ds will be 6 in December. He seems to have entered a new phase where he is very sensitive to 'fairness', he holds onto his grievances much longer, can't be jollied or distracted out of a bad mood and generally seems really defiant, hard to please, and almost a little depressed.

It feels very much like a developmental 'thing' because it started as he started kindergarden (although in the same montessori school and with the same teacher he has been with for the past 2 years), very abruptly and with no other particular changes in our home/family. (By the way, we just had our conference with his teacher and she hasn't seen any of this--when I pressed her she said perhaps he's been a little more sensitive about getting his feelings hurt, but that generally he seems happy, productive, easy-going, etc during the day).

I'm wondering if others have seen this at this age. I'm trying to be calm and patient with him, to use logical consequences etc. Redirection seems totally impossible at this stage as he really seems to resent any efforts on our part to 'change' his mood. Does anyone have any other thoughts or ideas? Any new books to read? (I feel like most of my parenting library is directed at parents of toddlers/preschoolers).

Thanks, Jessi

[Fuamami]

I think it's pretty typical. From what I've seen and heard, 6 yos are very legalistic and literal. They expect the rules to be followed to a T, and there's not a lot of "gray area". I kinda gave up on redirection and moved into the Anthony Wolf waiting for a bus approach around age 5 with my dd. I think the new understanding and awareness of the "rules" really facilitates that approach.

[lily sophia's mom]

You said more briefly and concisely what I just blabbed on & on about in another post here....sorry I can't be more help, but if you'll look for my post about 'what is happening with my daughter' they gave some good advice.
Gina

[jgale]

Thanks guys. Yes the 'legalistic' thing is big around here. Although paired with incredible emotional lability.

Sigh.