Anonymous wrote:DS is a bright kid who will be starting first grade next month.
Over the summer we’ve seen a major behavioral shift in his behavior as well as some skill regression.
He’s always been a witty, sunny, playful, silly, boisterous, adventures and independent kid. But he has become increasingly sad, clingy and needy.
We’ve also had a few nighttime accidents (has been fully nighttime trained since 4) paired with some newfound academic struggles that has us concerned.
We visited the Peditrician earlier this month and were referred to a child therapist. We also had any physical illnesses or ailments ruled out (he hasn’t been sick since March, and this behavior started early June). We’ve had two sessions so far and he seems to be responding well.
We ended up cutting all summer activities (day camps, sports, outings without us) because we are so freaked out and he seems to be wanting tons of one on one attention with us.
We’ve had a few life changes the past year. New baby sibling born last summer, new house in January (which he seems to love) and then our longtime nanny left after the school year ended and he seems overly upset by that but he’s genuinely very emotional right now.
He has stated numerous times he has not been hurt or made to feel uncomfortable around others and I addressed this fear with the therapist.
Obviously I’m terrified abuse has happened or he is suffering from depression which is definitely an issue in our family. But he just seems so young.
Has anyone seen a major change in their child that couldn’t be pinpointed?
I wouldn't discount his relationship with the nanny. I know to you she was just "the nanny", but to him she was, at least, a primary caregiver. I think losing her could count for a lot.
Also, he is young for a depressive episode, but it's not unheard of.
In any event, it sounds like you are doing all the right things. Try not to worry too much and just keep doing what you can.