In a much older child or adult, odd behaviour could be cause for concern, but rituals are normal in young children. Examples of such behaviour include:
- Eating lunch only if it's served on a blue and white plate
- Only drinking out of one beaker and getting upset if you try to give him any other cup
- Eating sandwiches only if they're cut into squares instead of triangles
- Refusing to give up old shoes that no longer fit, even when you've bought new ones
- Wanting the same bedtime story read to him ten times a night
- Watching a favourite video over and over again without getting bored
Such behaviour can be puzzling for adults, but it's absolutely normal. It's an attempt by your child to control and make sense of his world. Let your child have as many choices as possible - you might try letting him choose which plate or cup he wants to use, for example. As it's under his control, he may eventually opt for a new one, but don't worry if he doesn't. It's much easier to go along with your toddler and humour his needs until he grows out of these set habits. Most of them are harmless and disappear by themselves.
This article was last reviewed by Heather Welford in August 2008.
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