Ok, I have absolutely no fear that my son has anything like autism....he is VERY loving and active and responds to everything and imitates us like crazy and has a HUGE vocabulary. I am however a little concerned at some playing habits he has. At least 3 or 4 times a week he likes to disappear into the dark closet, shut the door and play in the dark for an hour or so. Or today I found him hiding behind the rocking chair in his bedroom which is against a corner. It actually took me a bit to find him. We live in a 1 bedroom apartment and I couldn't find him....thats how well he hid. Or he will go and lay on the bed, curl up under the blankets and play with his cars. I have even found him playing in the dark bathroom with the door closed. When I go to interact with him, he tells me to "go away". Should I be concerned? He loves to play outside and with other kids, and with us. It's just the reclusive play that has me worried. I have no idea if this is normal. I mean, I was an only child, so I had to entertain myself a lot, and I get that...I just don't understand the reclusive hiding in a dark place to play for an hour or more. Help....
I have 5 young kids and a couple of them liked to play alone for long stretches at a time. I think what you're describing falls into the normal category, yes.
Maybe this is his way to unwind or he gets over-stimulated at certain times of the day? I guess it makes him feel cozy and safe and just in his own world...doing pretend playing with his cars.
Had this behavior started once you became pregnant? I wonder if he is somehow having adjustment issues to the upcoming baby? Maybe going in the closet makes him feel secure and whatnot.
Did you try and talk with him about it? Perhaps show an interest in this activity...so he is not defensive about it, and ask him how it makes him feel, how come he likes to do that etc. but show him respect for it so he doesn't think he's doing something "wrong."
Sometimes, kids do these kinds of things to shut out the outside world... to calm themselves and retreat. Maybe it's his way to cope with things or the upcoming baby? Sometimes kids withdraw and it serves some kind of comfort for them.
Do you try to let him be a part of the preparations for the baby? Maybe let him buy something special for baby, help you organize things, feel your stomach etc.
If anything, ask his Pediatrician? Have you asked your Hubby if he has any insight to this?
Well, at least he is not afraid of the dark...on the other hand your son finds comfort in it.
I hope you find an answer to this. It's very curious.
Take care,
~Susan
www.cafepress.com/littlegoogoo
I wouldnt worry but I would see if I could get him to tell me when he was going to play in the closet or whatever
You need to know where he is at all times!
If you want to lessen this play, try giving him more privacy to play alone or in a tent and create darker places, as lights can be over stimulating. Also have professionals check his eyes regularly.
Good luck!
S.,m i don't think we can define normal and have it apply to very child, I run a hiome day care, and my small children, and even my two 5 year olds, are always behind, something under something, I would be more concerned about the typ of play especially in the bath room, playing with cars under a blanket for a 21 month old, i don't see anything wrong with that, at least you know he isn't afraid of the dark, I would discuss your concerns with his pediatrician, I had a child with autissium in my daycare and he did keep to himself, but your sone mau be establishing some independance. Let me knowout it turns out. J.
does he display anger or other emotions during these times? or any other times? perhaps he just needs some alone time. perhaps he really likes playing in the dark. maybe he sees things a bit differently! maybe he's looking for a space thats "his!" as long as he is safe and does not display any emotional signs to cause concern... allow him this opportunity of growth. one other thought... is he potty trained? sometimes children want privacy when they are eliminating!
My son at about that age would also find a quiet, remote spot and if I passed by he would also tell me to "go away". I soon realized that this was when he was "pooping".
This may not be your son's situation but worth a check. If it has anything to do with it, you might want to make sure he's getting enough water and is not constipated-this might account for the longer periods of time.
Anyway, kids have strange habits sometimes and as long as you're aware, you'll catch it if it turns into a problem. I liked the previous response that recommended a play tent-great solution!
