I read the book "without spanking or spoiling" which is chock full off GD techniques and reasons why kids do things. I think those reasons are super important and are really helping me decide how to handle things.
Specifically I think of a few weeks ago when he began hitting himself in the head with a toy or his hand. I recognised that he was doing it for attention and chose not to acknowledge his self-harm (he wasn't physically hurting himself, just hitting and then looking at me) and gave him more "focus time" and positive attention, and he pretty much never does it now. (and added bonus, now plays a little longer on his own, since he's had more one-on-one time)
I feel like I side stepped a major issue. Had I not stumbled upon GD and this book I definately would have said "don't do that" etc.. which very likely would have made him do it all the more.
So that's my little brag for the day. lol. No need to comment or anything. Just needed to tell someone.
I just also wanted to thank you all for being an inspiration!
You guys have made my house a calmer, gentler home. 
Specifically I think of a few weeks ago when he began hitting himself in the head with a toy or his hand. I recognised that he was doing it for attention and chose not to acknowledge his self-harm (he wasn't physically hurting himself, just hitting and then looking at me) and gave him more "focus time" and positive attention, and he pretty much never does it now. (and added bonus, now plays a little longer on his own, since he's had more one-on-one time)
I feel like I side stepped a major issue. Had I not stumbled upon GD and this book I definately would have said "don't do that" etc.. which very likely would have made him do it all the more.
So that's my little brag for the day. lol. No need to comment or anything. Just needed to tell someone.
I just also wanted to thank you all for being an inspiration!
You guys have made my house a calmer, gentler home. 
