The mom might have to adopt a more firm tone. And, as a mother who had a very aggressive child, she'll need to shadow him until he's done with this stage.
I've been writing a chapter on physical kids, it's very rough, but I'll cut and paste.
At the same time, the child is becoming more aware of his/her body, it's abilities and power. Add to that mix limited impulse control and limited verbal ability and the fact that a child expresses themselves physically is not a surprise. It's important to understand and acknowledge that it's age expected. If we do not expect the behavior, we are more likely to react with anger towards our child.
It's important to also remember that we do not want to stop physicalness in our children; we want to direct it and help them manage it. Their little bodies are exploding with emotionally fueled energy. We can't stop that. Instead, we need to find ways to make available appropriate physical expression.
However, as with other age expected behaviors, the fact that it's common does not make it acceptable. Children in this stage need coaching, clear boundaries and proactive approaches.
As young children with very big emotions, they are just learning how to manage the energy behind their emotions.
Children hit when they are threatened, thwarted, excited, angry, frustrated, tired, and because it's exciting.
Proactive discipline tools for a hitting child include: coaching, role playing, naming feelings, sensory/texture play, routine and baby signs. Making sure your child gets plenty of outdoor and large motor play helps, as well.
As far as responsive discipline tools, you need to stop the child and remove them if needed. Tell them "No hitting. Hitting hurts". Avoid saying "We don't hit". It's an inaccurate and confusing phrase to your child. Obviously, they do hit. They just did. Instead, stop their arm and tell them "I won't let you hurt me (or that child). I will help you follow the rules."
I've been writing a chapter on physical kids, it's very rough, but I'll cut and paste.
At the same time, the child is becoming more aware of his/her body, it's abilities and power. Add to that mix limited impulse control and limited verbal ability and the fact that a child expresses themselves physically is not a surprise. It's important to understand and acknowledge that it's age expected. If we do not expect the behavior, we are more likely to react with anger towards our child.
It's important to also remember that we do not want to stop physicalness in our children; we want to direct it and help them manage it. Their little bodies are exploding with emotionally fueled energy. We can't stop that. Instead, we need to find ways to make available appropriate physical expression.
However, as with other age expected behaviors, the fact that it's common does not make it acceptable. Children in this stage need coaching, clear boundaries and proactive approaches.
As young children with very big emotions, they are just learning how to manage the energy behind their emotions.
Children hit when they are threatened, thwarted, excited, angry, frustrated, tired, and because it's exciting.
Proactive discipline tools for a hitting child include: coaching, role playing, naming feelings, sensory/texture play, routine and baby signs. Making sure your child gets plenty of outdoor and large motor play helps, as well.
As far as responsive discipline tools, you need to stop the child and remove them if needed. Tell them "No hitting. Hitting hurts". Avoid saying "We don't hit". It's an inaccurate and confusing phrase to your child. Obviously, they do hit. They just did. Instead, stop their arm and tell them "I won't let you hurt me (or that child). I will help you follow the rules."