No matter what you suggest, your child systematically wants to review this same episode of Pat ‘Patroleven if it has just finished it. To believe that Ryder and his gang of joyful lads signed an exclusivity contract with your TV. You may negotiate, promise an ice cream or a toy, nothing helps. But why this mysterious obsession for a film, a game, a story or a particular activity?
If it may be frustrating in the eyes of parents, who would just want to do something different, it is actually completely normal. This rehearsal even has great advantages for the development of your child, as the researchers explain. The Conversation teaches us why it is therefore time to kiss this phase … or at least tolerate it.
Children are very sensitive to the appearance of regularities and models in their lives. This process is linked to what researchers call “statistical learning”. According to this idea, children naturally detect regularities in their environment. Thus, when they always claim the same story when they go to bed, what they do, whether they know it or not, is motivated by the desire to detect and consolidate regularities and models in their lives.
In addition to promoting learning, repetition has beneficial effects on children’s emotions, what is called “well-being effect”. The main task of the child is to learn, which involves actively looking for new experiences and stimuli. But it can be exhausting. However, well -known stimuli, like this episode that they have already watched dozens of times, can constitute a source of comfort and safety to amortize this stress.
Another fundamental aspect of repetition is the feeling of control and mastery that it gives to the child. When a child replayed with the same game, he gradually becomes an “expert” in this activity. This feeling of mastery is precious to him. In addition, being able to choose an activity he loves gives him a feeling of autonomy and control over his life – which often consists in being guided here and there by his parents.
A habit to monitor
As you can see, rehearsal is very beneficial for learning and well-being. Also don’t force your child to repeat himself in his activities, but don’t worry if he undertakes this himself. Nevertheless, be careful that this rehearsal does not become invasive. If he refuses to get out of the house on time, interact with others or exercise, it may hide anxiety or a need for exacerbated control. In which case, try to accompany it gently towards a gradual opening.
Of course, there is no general rule applicable to all children in all contexts. As parents, we can only be attentive to the situation and make a decision. So, the next time you hear Elsa starting “released, delivered”, breathe a good blow. Like all phases of childhood, it will also pass.
