Yolanda Solo

As parents we try to balance childcare with the tasks of daily life, maintaining a relationship with our partners and working to earn a living. Sometimes it is exhausting, and we struggle to maintain our composure. The last straw can be the kids screaming at the end of the day, refusing to go to bed, whingeing and arguing with you. Perhaps you start screaming at them, desperately wanting some peace and quiet to try and collect your thoughts.

Why are they so difficult? Why do they have to play up, just when you most need them to behave?

If you take a step back, you will be able to see that when they play up the most, is when you are most stressed. Why? Because they are mirroring you. When you are stressed, you are less likely to interact with them, show them as much love, or communicate directly with them. Out of frustration, boredom and even fear, children will start´playing up´ in response to your current state.