Is Your Child Crossing the Line With Rude Behaviour? Experts Warn Parents Not to Ignore It as “Cute”

Children are naturally playful and mischievous, but when mischief begins to cross the line into rudeness, parents must take it seriously. According to pediatrician Dr. Rohit Bhardwaj, repeatedly ignoring a child’s rude behaviour by calling it “cute” can have long-term negative effects on the child’s personality.

Dr. Bhardwaj cautions that habits formed in early childhood often shape future behaviour. If parents fail to correct such conduct in time, these same habits may become serious behavioural problems later in life.

Do Not Dismiss Rudeness as Harmless Behaviour

Dr. Bhardwaj explains that when a child constantly argues, talks back, throws tantrums, lies on the floor, cries loudly, or screams when demands are not met, it should not be brushed aside with excuses like “he’s just a child” or “she’s being cute.” If these behaviours are left unchecked, they may resurface five years later in a much more harmful form. At that stage, the child may learn harsh lessons from society rather than from parents.

Talk to the Child at Their Level

If a child ignores instructions or pretends not to hear, parents should avoid shouting from a distance. Instead, they should go closer, sit at the child’s eye level, and speak calmly while maintaining eye contact. According to the expert, it becomes difficult for a child to ignore communication when it is done respectfully and directly.

Teach That Anger Is Acceptable, Not Rudeness

The pediatrician emphasizes that children must be taught that feeling angry is normal, but expressing anger through rude or disrespectful behaviour is not acceptable. Physical punishment or shouting may bring temporary obedience, but it does not work in the long run and can damage emotional development.

Lying During Playtime Is Also a Warning Sign

Dr. Bhardwaj also warns parents against overlooking lying behaviour. If a child lies to friends during games or hides small things from parents, it should be corrected immediately. Praising or ignoring such actions can encourage dishonesty. If this habit continues into the teenage years, the child may lie more seriously and break parental trust without hesitation.

Let Children Learn the Value of Effort

Parents are advised not to fulfill every demand instantly. Instead, children should be given age-appropriate tasks so they learn the value of effort and responsibility. When a child completes a task, rewarding them helps teach two important lessons: the importance of hard work and appreciation for what parents provide.

Expert Advice for Long-Term Parenting Success

Dr. Bhardwaj concludes that early guidance, consistent boundaries, and respectful communication are key to raising emotionally healthy and responsible children. Ignoring early warning signs may seem harmless today, but it can create serious challenges in the future.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on an Instagram video shared by a medical expert. Navbharat Times does not independently verify its accuracy.