A toddler has begun hitting and biting other children at a day care center and is exhibiting temper tantrums and bad language at home. The parent reports that these behaviors began shortly after a sibling was born. What will the primary care pediatric nurse practitioner do?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The child's new behavior coincides with the birth of a sibling, which can be a difficult adjustment for a young child. The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner should engage the parent in positive parenting strategies to help the child cope with the changes in the family dynamic. This may include encouraging the parent to spend one-on-one time with the child, providing positive reinforcement for good behavior, redirecting negative behavior, and setting consistent limits and consequences. Evaluating the child for a behavioral disorder such as ADHD or conduct/oppositional defiant disorder may be considered if the behaviors persist despite these interventions. Changing day care centers is unlikely to address the root cause of the child's behavior.

A Toddler Has Begun Hitting and Biting Other Children at a Day