Six Year Old Talks Too Much

Question:

I have a 6yr old son in kindergarten. He is constantly getting in trouble for talking. I have done just about everything I know to do to quiet him. I know children like to talk, but this is really getting out of control. He is very bright and has a wonderful personality. I don’t want to be to hard on him because I don’t want to change his little personality. He just loves people and loves to TALK. I have explained to him that there is a time and place for talking, playing etc…..I have taken away favorite toys, TV, games, just about everything at some point. PLEASE HELP!!!

Jackie

Answer:

Dear Jackie,

What a lucky young man! He has a mother who recognizes his positive characteristics, despite the difficulty they may be causing him in the classroom. You are right when you worry about discouraging him. Talking can be seen as disrespectful, or it could be seen as enthusiasm. In either case, it can be a problem that needs to be addressed. Seeing talking as enthusiasm, however, instead of disrespect creates a totally different attitude for dealing with the problem.