Bad behaviour

Q: My three-year-old explodes into a tornado of bad behavior the second we turn our backs to vacuum or do a load of laundry. What should we do?

A: He doesn’t know what to do with himself when you turn away from him. Instead, try to involve him. While you’re vacuuming, have him pick up toys. When you’re doing laundry, have him load the dryer and help you fold clothes, then put them away.

Your son also needs to learn how to play alone. When you’re about to start a new task, get him started playing, then tell him you need to work while he plays for a short while.

He may also just be bored. Find a good preschool or some other activities, such as sports or crafts.