I need help with this child. I don't think this is normal.?

Question

I work with a 8 year old boy since his birth as his nanny and homeschool teacher. He does not have the summers off by the way but takes a break during family vacations in which they take 4 times per year.

Anyway, this child is freaking me out. I document everything, I mean EVERYTHING, the time, the date, what happened, lessons, every bit of detail there is.

I was looking over my notes one day and realized that ever 38 days, this little boy has the most horrible fits any child could ever have. When I realized how consistent (as in every 38 days beginning around noon) they were, it creeped me out. His fits consist of screaming, kicking, throwing, punching (his mom, not me), biting, slapping the dog, banging his head on the wall, throwing knives (he threw one at his father once and it landed in his leg), swinging hammers (he hit his mother in the head and cracked her skull) and so much much.

The thing is, this drama happens every 38 days! The rest of time, he is an angel. Not aggressive, happy, loving, obedient, etc. The reason why he is being home schooled because his parents are afraid that he may kill someone if he throws a fit. They have not yet figured out the pattern but have. Since I came along, his fits has calmed because I somewhat ignore him. I tell him to go to his room and when he is done, he can come out. Of course, by the time he comes out, the room is a total wreck but he is calm. He hates that I do not give him attention during that time so he calms down a lot quicker.

I cant help to think if this normal. A fit every 38 days consistently, not a mistake. This is bizarre! Any ideas, thoughts, suggestions?

Answer 1

Is he on any medication cycles that take about 38 days?

Answer 2

This child should see some sort of developmental pediatrician, probably a Behavioral specialist.  It sounds like a Behavioral Therapy plan needs implemented.

Good Luck!

Answer 3

maybe its childhood bipolar but i dont know but that does sound strange. Is he on any medications that may cause this?      

edit.

i just had another though it could be some type of partial seizure

you really should have him checked out by a neurologist

Answer 4

You work as a nanny and a "teacher" yet you feel at a loss as to what to do about this child?  I would say it was quite obvious you had no formal education in child psychology or early childhood education and as a parent I am afraid I wouldn't hire you.   Anyone can see that this child needs to be tested for bi polar or some other disorder and so far ALL of the adults in this poor child's life have dropped the ball.  

Answer 5

You need to sit the parents down one on two and show then your book (journal) and tell them ''here look at this'' and explain to them the consistency and convince them to get him to a therapist and also show the dr the book also. Its for his own good. If he keeps this up, you could be in danger...I would not take that kind of behavior much longer but try to help him first. Im sure if you are that good to be around for 8 yrs then they wont want to lose you, so they should cooperate to do whatever so you dont leave. Good Luck!

Answer 6

yes...... it is totally strange, it's not normal......

Aspiegirl I think you have the right idea in mind as has everyone else here......

I really think you should consult the parents, get them to take him to see someone......

I have to agree with them......

it is for his own good......

but personally? I have never heard of this type of behaviour in a child..... it would also be wise to check the internet out for similar cases that may also have occured...... chances are someone may have already found a solution to the problem......

Answer 7

Wow! I am not sure what to say.  The obvious, inform parents, continue documenting everything, and look even closer at your notes to see what exactly happens on that 38th day for him to be set off like that.  Once his parents review your documents, they should be willing to have him checked out.  

I am going to be honest with you Quia, for some reason, I don't think this is real.  I think this is a made up story.  A fit every 38 days so bad that the child is throwing knives and hitting momma in the head, girl that is CRAZY!  

If it is all true, you know what to do.  If not, good job making up the question.

Answer 8

No, it's not normal.

Shocked that you would even think for a second it was even the slightest bit normal.

He needs to see a doctor and have a complete evaluation including his mental health.

Answer 9

First, is this child adopted.  If so there may be underlying issues pre-adoption that you are not aware of.  

Second, he needs to have a mental health evaluation.  My son has a mood disorder.  He will be fine and then get to the point where it is like his brain is on overload and he can't maintain anymore.  When he does have a meltdown (typically with me) he screams at me, hits and kicks.  He has also put a whole in his bedroom door.  He has taken meds for about 2 yrs now and is doing much better.  Also, he is very sleep controlled.  Is this child you take care of getting enough sleep.  If not that can buildup up to a meltdown.

Answer 10

Tell his parents the pattern you have noticed.