How to minimize inappropriate copy-cat behaviors?

Question

Being without the financial capacity to afford a daycare - my 2 & a half yr. old is babysat by my sister-in-law on a daily basis.

She also has a 6yr old autistic boy - whom my child basically sees as his mentor.

He has off & on emulated the actions of her son. But now it's a constant. From screaming about EVERYTHING. Hitting, grabbing heads for face to face contact when talking, particular odd noises the child makes, mannerisms...etc....

I know, things that sound typical of every child to do...however they are behaviors that are displayed to an extreme.

It seems week-by-week my son's personality is becoming less & less - and being replaced by my sister-in-law's son.

Does anyone have any advice on how to minimize this copy-cat behavior when at home (if not everywhere).

Answer 1

When he exhibits behavior that closely resembles your nephew, sit him down and calmly discuss how "your family" behaves when (whatever prompted the outburst)frustrated etc. We use our words and give examples. Don't compare to cousin and his behavior. If it comes up in conversation, point out that what he does is not what you do in your family and to learn what is expected of him. Kids are smart and will quickly see the reason. Don't go into the illness, don't compare and don't discuss yet. Reinforce the good behavior. Reward for appropriate behavior without talking about cousin. Find a time to be with other children that do not have these ways. As he gets older he'll have compassion and a good sense of helping others.