Six year old boys are still learning how to control their impulses and how to behave in groups. Compared to girls the same age, boys are usually less socially and emotionally mature. If your son is one of the younger kids in his class it may be even more apparent. For this reason it is always best to hold most boys back from starting school until they are a solid five years old, or will be turning six soon after starting their kindergarten year.

You can work with your son at home to help him with impulse control. Invite friends over for play dates and watch their interactions. Catch him being good. Without being too intrusive, praise him when you see him taking turns and sharing, and redirect him when he seems to always want to be first. You can also work on a reward chart where he gets stickers or points for good behavior and at the end of the week is able to get a reward. This sounds like it may be a similar approach to what his teacher is doing at school.

Do your best to work with your son's teacher. If the teacher does not seem to be supportive, ask to meet with the school counselor for more support and ideas. Our website for parents can give you more ideas on how to give your son praise and reinforcement, as well as natural and appropriate consequences for his age. Please go to: www.parenting.org
We also have counselors on duty 24 hours, 7 days a week to answer your questions and give you guidance. We can be reached by phone or e-mail.

Take care and best wishes to you and your son. We hope to hear from you in the near future!

Sincerely,

Cynthia, Counselor
Boys Town National Hotline
1-800-448-3000
hotline@boystown.org