Risk-Taking Behaviors In Toddlers

[jentina]

I have an almost three year old boy who I would describe as a risk-taker.  He moves fast, climbs high, puts every darn thing in his mouth, and engages in all manner of terrifying behaviors.  My nerves are ragged and I am at my wits' end.  And I don't mean just run-of-the-mill stuff.  I mean tries to climb over fences keeping him from thirty foot drops,  standing in windows, eating cleaners.  You know, really fun stuff like that.  One day I tried to count how many times my stomach dropped out from pure fear.  I was at 25 by 10 am and just quit counting.

I don't know what to do anymore.  I literally fantasize about running away just so I don't have to worry so much anymore.  Any tips from parents who have been there?

[tzs]

haven't had this experience as a parent but i think i might be going through something similar with a toddler in my preschool class. 

have you ever looked into sensory processing disorder?

http://www.sensory-processing-disorder.com/sensory-processing-disorder-checklist.html

he could be just seeking out sensory experiences more than some other kids, in which case a little OT could help. even without the "disorder" label, OT can really help some kids learn how to calm their bodies and redirect sensory seeking behaviors. ("birth through 3" services are provided at no cost if your child qualifies and usually they make it really fun for the kids)

[jentina]

Thanks for that link.  Although I don't know that he has a sensory processing disorder, he definitely has a lot of the behaviors.  It seems like the therapies could be helpful regardless of a diagnosis, though we'll talk to his dr. at his next appointment.

Thanks!