Is it normal for children to cut and eat Barbie’s hair? How do deal with competitive children? Dr. Kevin Leman shares his usual wit and wisdom in this episode.
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Question:
Hello Dr. Leman, my name is Erika. I am a newly married, grad student getting my counseling degree and currently working as a nanny. (I love being a nanny because I have been able to help so many families with the advice you share in your books) I am currently working with a family who have two power children (when I first got here they ran the house) they are doing so much better now (thanks to you ) I have noticed recently that they turn everything in to a competition ( who can swing higher, who can sing better, dance better ect) is this type of competition healthy or destructive for kids? Their ages are 6 and 3. Also the three year old has an odd habit. When she gets angry she goes and cuts off her barbies hair and eats it. I’ve never heard of this (except on those weird shows like my strange addictions lol) is this something we should be concerned with? Thanks again for all your resources! God bless
Answer:
- Cutting Barbie’s hair is normal for girls.
- Girls love to cut their hair or each other’s hair.
- Don’t read too much into the hair cutting.
- You see more competition when kids are within 2 years of each other.
- It is better to give kids space.
- The powerful child comes from a powerful parent.
- Keep responding, don’t react to their actions.
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