Know all about child regression and 4 ways to deal with it

Literally, regression is the antonym of progression. Simply put, in terms of your children, as many steps as your child takes in progress, they take some steps back as well. Regression varies from child to child and from moment to moment. For instance, your child may be clingier than before, wish to be fed more often, talk childishly, or have different vocal tones. Regression is pretty common in toddlers, but there are instances seen in older children and infants as well. While it is extremely common, you can still take some measures to help your child and make your life easier.

Here are 4 tips to keep in mind to deal with child regression:

1. Know your child’s behaviour

It can work wonders when you start observing your child’s behaviour; how often they throw tantrums, what triggers them, and their attitude towards other children of their age. Once you start observing your child, you’ll notice the patterns and be able to discern ways to help them out. Body language says a lot about people, and it works the same with your children when you learn to read the signs.

2. Candid talks

Your children need to grow up in an environment where they feel safe to be authentic. This includes the ability to express their concerns and doubts. More often than not, bottling up emotions can lead to further grave consequences in the future. The next time you notice your child struggling with something and they are having a hard time making progress with it, take the time to sit with your children and have a more open and candid talk. It can be while you’re having dinner together, the time they are playing, or you can even ask them to help with household chores. Once your child feels secure about their feelings, they will open up and you’ll understand your little one’s needs so you can better help them.

Also, read: Parenting tips: Know the factors that influence motor development skills in children

3. Reassurance

Whether you believe it or not, words of reassurance play a critical role in a person’s life. We all yearn to be appreciated in our lives when we do something worthwhile. Children wish for the same. When you see your toddler trying something new, encourage them with kind words. Help them to believe in themselves and appreciate and celebrate them whenever they achieve something in their lives, no matter how trivial it might be. The truth is, it’s not trivial in your child’s mind. This will create a healthy and strong bond with your children, and they’ll feel more connected with you.

4. Seek professional help

When you see a pattern of regression in your child’s behaviour for more than a few weeks, you can always approach the child’s healthcare provider and seek their professional advice.

Children have a curiosity seeded in their minds that needs to be watered with your support, care, and words of motivation. The above mentioned are some of the measures that you can take with your child once you pinpoint a regressive pattern in their behaviour and help them.