Rich,
At age 3, it is ok to be a mommys boy. The need for security is so great, let him be comfortable in knowing that he is loved. Children go through stages of anxiety that are very normal. MANY MANY children do not like to get their hair cut. For me personally my childs hair would have to be really really long before I resorted to such a drastic measure. I would more have to gently encourage a hair cut, by maybe reading some books about getting a hair cut, role play it, and let them watch others get their haircut and realize there is nothing to fear about haircuts. It may take a bit of extra time, but I believe children need the security of knowing their parents are there to protect them from their fears. Three years old really is still so young.
Dare I ask what your approach to manly bonding time is???
One more thing about a child walking a mile. Yes, I agree with Lost1, that is it physically possible for them to do this at times. But it can be equally impossible for them to accomplish, depending on what their day has been like, which includes not having a nap. An older child or an adult has the knowledge and ability to push themselves beyond their seeming limit. A young child has not yet developed that ability to rationalize that, and see the end in sight. Their world is totally centered on what is happening right then and there.....If they are tired.....they tired.....that simple.
For me, both issues, a three year old in a stroller, or forcing a haircut comes down to choosing our battles. Is it worth the strife to insist on our parenting ideals to be carried out, or can we consider what the child may really be feeling.
I hope I can maintain the attitude of choosing my battles even as my children enter into their teen years. I already told my daughter, blue hair would be ok!!! <ggg>
jane |
