Where’s the limit?

I recently watched a preschooler test the limits of acceptable behavior in church. The child was sitting alongside the aisle with his mom. First he stood up next to his chair. Next he wandered a little into the aisle. Not getting any negative feedback, he roamed a couple rows down.

He then tried jumping up and down. Of course he chose to do this right during a quiet time so it did get people’s attention. Still his mom did not react.

Finally he did some clapping while stamping his feet. At this point his mom picked him up and brought him back to his seat.

He had finally found the limit! Kids naturally try stretching the boundaries. It’s part of exploring and growing. When you see your children’s behavior continuing and escalating, it’s time to let them know they’ve reached a boundary.