At an immunisation visit, the mother of a 3-year-old boy says he hits his 10-month-old sister several times a…

Question

At an immunisation visit, the mother of a 3-year-old boy says he hits his 10-month-old sister several times a day, usually while she is being fed. She has tried telling him off later in the evening, without effect, and asks whether she should smack him, because nothing else works. He is developing normally, plays well at childcare, and there are no concerns about his sister. Which one of the following is the most appropriate advice?

Accepted Answer

Use brief time-out immediately after each incident

Answer

Ignore the hitting until it stops

Answer

Reason with him about his sister's feelings

Answer

Smack him immediately after each incident

Answer

Withdraw a favourite toy the next day

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